Tuesday, February 14, 2023

CTDOT providing residents with free subscription to Transit Royale

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Connecticut
Department of Transportation

Connecticut Department of Transportation Upgrades Public Transportation Customers Statewide to Premium Subscription of Transit App

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is providing Connecticut residents with a one-year free subscription to Transit Royale, an upgrade to the mobile app Transit starting February 14, 2023. The upgrade is free for all current and new users.

 

Transit is a free mobile app that helps public transportation users plan and track their bus and train trips using schedule information and real-time vehicle location, where available. It is free to download and is available on iOS and Android.

 

Approximately 41,000 public transit customers in the state already use the Transit app and will automatically be upgraded to Royale. With this upgrade to Transit Royale, riders in Connecticut can:

 

  • Access routes outside of their immediate area without encountering a paywall
  • Schedule trips in advance
  • Choose a custom avatar and nickname
  • Choose app branding with the CTDOT logo and colors
  • Select custom themes and icons for locations such as home, work, and school
  • Compete with fellow riders and move up the leaderboard by sharing real-time train and bus information with other app users 

"We want riders throughout Connecticut to see how easy it is to use public transit," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Transit Royale is a useful tool that makes the transit experience fun, personalized, and engaging from start to finish."

 

The following public transit systems are available in the Transit app on February 14, 2023:  CTtransit, CTfastrak, CTrail Hartford Line and Shore Line East, Metro-North New Haven Line, Greater Bridgeport Transit, 9 Town Transit, Middletown Area Transit, Norwalk Transit District, Southeast Area Transit District, and Windham Region Transit District.

 

CTDOT is working with Housatonic Area Regional Transit, Milford Transit District, Northwestern CT Transit District, and Northeastern Connecticut Transit District to incorporate those transit systems' static schedule data in the Transit app this year.

 

For more information about Transit or to download and install the app on your mobile device, visit transit.app.


Friday, January 27, 2023

State of Connecticut Launches EValuateCT Dashboard Highlighting Connecticut’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure and Market

CTDOT hosts innovative dashboard built in collaboration with CTDMV and CTDEEP ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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DOT Seal
Connecticut
Department of Transportation

State of Connecticut Launches EValuateCT Dashboard Highlighting Connecticut’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure and Market

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has launched a new digital tool that illustrates Connecticut’s electric vehicle (EV) market and EV infrastructure. It was developed in collaboration with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) and Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CTDEEP).

EValuateCT is a comprehensive dashboard providing insights into the current state of vehicle electrification in Connecticut—including where public EV chargers are located throughout the state, what EV makes and models are most popular, in which communities EVs are registered, and more.

“This new, innovative dashboard makes the data of Connecticut’s electric vehicle infrastructure accessible and serves as a valuable tool for residents, travelers, policymakers, and other stakeholders,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “I want to thank our partners at CTDMV and CTDEEP for their partnership on this project. We are proud to say we have the most current data visualization for vehicle electrification and the locations for public EV chargers—a valued convenience for travelers with electric vehicles.”

“DEEP is pleased to support the EValuateCT dashboard through our ongoing data analysis efforts,” said Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes. “Data metrics are critical to informing our efforts to expand the Connecticut Hydrogen and Electric Purchase Rebate (CHEAPR) program to be more equitable in how we include low to moderate income EV purchasers, as well as including more EVs, public and private fleets, medium-heavy duty vehicles, school buses and even electric bicycles! This dashboard will be a valuable tool to help consumers navigate the growing EV landscape in Connecticut and the exciting options available.”

Since January 1, 2020, the number of registered EVs in Connecticut has increased by 158%. As of December 2022, there were 30,124 EVs registered with CTDMV (including battery and plug-in hybrid EVs). With over 360 available public EV charging stations in the state and additional chargers being planned in the coming years, EV drivers living in or visiting Connecticut can access vehicle charging at many convenient locations. The new EValuateCT tool will make these trends easier for everyone to see as more Connecticut drivers are discovering that EVs are fun to drive, and offer increasing ranges along with lower operating costs. 

In September, Connecticut’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) plan was approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). NEVI was established and funded by President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, allowing states to receive federal funding to build a convenient, reliable, and affordable electric vehicle charging network across the country. CTDOT will receive $52.5 million in federal funding over the next five years to deploy the state’s plan.

EValuateCT is made possible through a collaboration between CTDOT, CTDMV, CTDEEP, and Atlas Public Policy to provide analytics regarding the state of transportation electrification in Connecticut. CTDEEP provides aggregate vehicle registration data to Atlas Public Policy twice a year. All other data sources, such as demographic data, retail electricity prices, and charging data, are obtained through federal government databases. 

EValuateCT was created with the support of and funding from the U.S. Climate Alliance and is powered by Microsoft Power BI.

To learn more about Connecticut’s electric vehicle resources, visit portal.ct.gov/DOT/Sustainability-and-Resiliency/Connecticut-Electric-Vehicle-Planning-Resources.


Thursday, January 26, 2023

CTDOT Seeking On-Demand Microtransit Service Proposals

RFP deadline is 4 p.m. on April 28, 2023. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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DOT Seal
Connecticut
Department of Transportation

Connecticut Department of Transportation Seeking Proposals to Develop and Operate On-Demand Microtransit Service

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced today that it is seeking proposals from qualified and eligible applicants to develop and operate an on-demand microtransit service pilot program. 

Microtransit service is a mode of transportation that uses a digital network to offer on-demand transportation in response to consumer demand in select service zones. Connecticut residents will benefit from microtransit service, which fills in the gaps in Connecticut's extensive public transportation system, bringing more service to communities that have been historically underserved, helping seniors and individuals with mobility impairments, and creating first and last-mile connections to existing public transportation systems. 

For example, a resident will be able to use a smartphone app or make a phone call to request a pick up or drop off within select service areas, which could include business and shopping districts, entertainments venues, as well as train stations, bus stops, or Park and Ride lots. The on-demand service provides flexibility and increased mobility options for residents.  

"We are looking forward to implementing this important pilot program and expanding microtransit services in Connecticut. We have seen the success of microtransit in other parts of the country and are hopeful to see it replicated in our state," stated CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "The expansion of microtransit benefits communities around the state by ensuring transportation is no longer a barrier to health care, education, and employment. The service is vital to enhancing the quality of life for all of Connecticut's residents and improving the state's economic vitality." 

Eligible applicants for this proposal include municipalities, transit districts, and councils of governments (COGs) that propose services that meet the pilot program's objectives and requirements. CTDOT will review and select an estimated five to seven proposals, based on available funding, serving both rural and urban areas to receive operational funding. Microtransit services would start within six months of the award. The pilot program will last for two years with the possibility of two one-year extensions exercisable solely by CTDOT. 

A virtual pre-proposal meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 22, 2023. The Request for Proposal (RFP) submittal deadline is 4 p.m. EST, Friday, April 28, 2023. 

In addition to this pilot program, Connecticut already has the following microtransit services: XtraMile (operated by Estuary Transit District), Rides On-Demand (Housatonic Area Regional Transit District), Wheels 2U Norwalk and Wheels 2U Westport (Norwalk Transit District), and New London Smart Ride and Stonington HOP Service (Southeast Area Transit District). 

Qualified and eligible applicants can find more information regarding this RFP by visiting portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard and searching for RFP# OTR0126-23-R-12883.


Thursday, November 3, 2022

CTDOT Publishes Five-Year Capital Plan Outlining Federal Infrastructure Law Implementation

Public invited to attend virtual public information session on November 16 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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DOT Seal
Connecticut
Department of Transportation

CTDOT Publishes Five-Year Capital Plan Outlining Federal Infrastructure Law Implementation

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has finalized and published its five-year Capital Plan, after receiving and incorporating public input in February 2022.

The report, covering fiscal years 2022–2026,outlines developments, guidance, and implementation efforts for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), passed and signed into law in November 2021. This historic federal investment and ongoing robust state-funded programs will move Connecticut forward in reducing transportation emissions and accelerating investments in a cleaner, more equitable and resilient transportation system.

CTDOT invites the public to attend a virtual public information session on Wednesday, November 16, at 7:00 p.m. for a presentation of the current five-year Capital Plan, and to provide input and feedback on the future Capital Plan for fiscal years 2023-2027. Register and submit questions for the session here. Individuals can also provide public comments here. The session will also be recorded and posted at ct.gov/ctdotvpimarchive.

Explore the new Interactive Map with Active Project Information, and access the Capital Plan Project List here.

"The federal infrastructure law is here in Connecticut at a critical yet exciting time," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Joe Giulietti. "Despite ongoing pandemic challenges, the CTDOT is forging ahead to accelerate much-needed repairs to our infrastructure while increasing safety and accessibility for all users of our interconnected transportation systems in the state. In five years, Connecticut's upgraded transportation infrastructure will be safer, more resilient, and better connected across communities."

The IIJA provides Connecticut with approximately $5.38 billion in federal transportation funding over five years—an increase of $1.6 billion over the previous federal transportation funding authorization. High levels of inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions will pose challenges in effectively delivering projects in a timely manner.

Connecticut expects to receive approximately $4.1 billion over five years in federal formula funding for highways and bridges and $1.3 billion for public transit. The federal infrastructure law created several new formula programs, such as the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program to deploy electric vehicle (EV) fast charging stations along the interstate network.

Through the new federal Bridge Investment Program, funding to repair or replace municipally owned bridges will be covered 100 percent for all phases, from design to construction. Municipalities remain involved in the process in partnership with CTDOT, realizing accelerated project timelines to bring bridges back to states of good repair more quickly. 

Safety improvements and initiatives for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists remain a top priority for CTDOT. Wrong-way driving occurrences on Connecticut's highways have significantly increased, often with tragic consequences. CTDOT received $20 million in state bond funding to address this dangerous trend by installing wrong-way detection systems at ten pilot locations throughout the state.

CTDOT is also planning over 1,300 pedestrian and traffic signal upgrades, anticipating approximately $38 million for projects to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes through Highway Safety Improvement Program funds.

Additional new formula funding programs are Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-saving Transportation (PROTECT); and Carbon Reduction. CTDOT is taking a phased approach for the short-term (FY22-FY23) while planning for the longer term (FY24-26) as additional guidance from federal partners is released.

The infrastructure law makes more than $100 billion in competitive federal transportation grants available for Connecticut to pursue. New grant opportunities available to Connecticut include Safe Streets and Roads for All, Reconnecting Communities, Rural Surface Transportation, and culvert repair and replacement (see a complete list of discretionary grant programs here: Capital Plan on page 5).

CTDOT is focused on several Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) studies—a process approach that considers environmental, community, and economic goals in the very early planning phase of a transportation program or project. CTDOT PEL studies currently underway include the Greater Hartford Mobility Study, New Mix Waterbury, I-95 Stamford, and I-95 Eastern Connecticut from Branford to Rhode Island. The public is encouraged to follow the studies' progress and participate in upcoming public information sessions.

The infrastructure law supports ongoing rail initiatives and the expansion of many others, such as Time for CT, to increase train speeds and improve travel times on the passenger rail system. Time for CT focuses on expanding the Hartford Line service with new stations in Windsor Locks and Enfield, purchasing and implementing all-electric rail cars throughout the state, and modernizing the Waterbury Branch Line by installing high-level platforms at each station.

The Bus Capital Program provides funding for vehicle purchases. It facilitates upgrade improvements and infrastructure to support fixed routes and paratransit services operated by transit districts in urban and rural areas around the state.

The final Capital Plan is planned to be released in January 2023.