CTDOT Reminds the Public to Stay Alert as Daylight Hours Decrease and Halloween Nears

Web Version     CTDOT Reminds the Public to Stay Alert as Daylight Hours Decrease and Halloween Nears Posted on October 30 , 2025 As part of National Pedestrian Safety Month, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is urging motorists and pedestrians to exercise extra caution this Halloween weekend. With shorter daylight hours and the end of Daylight Saving Time on Sunday, November 2, it's especially important to stay alert to changing road conditions and reduced visibility. In Connecticut in 2024, there were 1,429 crashes involving pedestrians on Connecticut roads, with 62 pedestrian fatalities. As of October 30, 2025, preliminary data for 2025 shows that there have been 866 crashes involving pedestrians, and 45 pedestrians have been killed in Connecticut. "This time of year brings darker evenings, busier roads, and we need drivers to do everything they can to keep themselves and those around them safe," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "We're asking all Connecticut residents to look out for one another. A few simple actions, putting the phone away, slowing down, and watching for pedestrians, can save lives and make our communities safer for everyone." "Pedestrian safety should be a priority for all drivers as they navigate local and state roads," said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. "With darkness arriving earlier this weekend, we caution motor vehicle operators to ditch the distractions, reduce speeds, and focus solely on driving when behind the wheel." "As daylight hours shorten, it becomes more difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, especially during dawn and dusk," said Watertown Police Chief Joshua Bernegger, chair of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association's Traffic Safety Committee. "We urge everyone walking to stay alert and make themselves visible. Drivers should slow down, stay attentive, and be prepared for reduced visibility. Together, we can help ensure everyone gets home safely this season." CTDOT offers several tips for drivers to help keep pedestrians safe: Shared responsibility: Be aware of pedestrians at all times and in all locations. Drive cautiously in low-visibility conditions: Be extra careful at night or during bad weather. Slow down near crosswalks: Be ready to stop when approaching or turning into crosswalks. Yield to pedestrians: Stop at crosswalks and maintain a safe distance, allowing other drivers to see and stop for pedestrians as well. Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk: There may be pedestrians crossing that you cannot see. Never drive under the influence: Always ensure you are sober when driving. Obey speed limits: Especially in school zones and residential areas where children are present. Be careful when reversing: Check for pedestrians behind your vehicle before backing up. For more safety information and tips for parents, caregivers, and children, visit nhtsa.gov. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

CTDOT Announces Innovative Solutions for I-84 and Route 7 Congestion and Mobility in Danbury

Plan includes a Flex Lane to reduce peak-hour congestion and improve safety. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Announces Innovative Solutions for I-84 and Route 7 Congestion and Mobility in Danbury Posted on October 2 , 2025 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced its proposal for addressing congestion and mobility along the Interstate 84 (I-84) and US Route 7 corridor in Danbury. After reviewing and analyzing potential options and breakout projects, the CTDOT has determined that a Flex Lane concept, which uses the median shoulder as a temporary travel lane, will be the first project advancing to alleviate traffic and improve safety during peak travel times. Design is underway, with construction anticipated to start in 2028. WATCH: I-84 Flex Lane Explained "We are excited to address mobility and safety in this busy corridor through a new innovative solution for Connecticut. By constructing the Flex Lane within the highway's existing footprint, we'll be able to quickly make a positive change to people's commutes without years of construction," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "The community has been loud and clear about the need for us to address these bottlenecks, and we have a proven solution that's going to make a significant improvement within the next five years to help all travelers." The Flex Lane initiative originated through the I-84 Danbury Planning and Environment Linkages (PEL) Study. Over the last several years, strategies for improving transportation for all users have been identified in alignment with regional and local needs and community goals. These strategies were developed into project concepts with extensive public outreach and input. The evaluation of these concepts identified alternatives for the I-84 corridor to advance for further study or implementation. Additionally, a supporting intersection project at Main Street and Downs Street/North Street is proposed, which would address operational and safety improvements at this very busy intersection in the city. Other future alternatives involve reconfiguring the highway and interchange ramps to reduce weaving, as well as enhancing multimodal connections within the surrounding roadway network. The public can learn more about these alternatives by visiting the Project Alternatives page on the study website.  Stay tuned for additional public outreach events on the Flex Lane in the coming months and as other projects move forward from planning into design, community involvement will continue. For more information, to sign up for project updates, and newsletters, visit i84Danbury.com. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

CTDOT Receives Approval of its National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan

The Federal Highway Administration approved Connecticut's plan to utilize $52 Million in NEVI Funds. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Receives Approval of its National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan Posted on September 26 , 2025 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has approved Connecticut's revised plan to utilize funds under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program. With this approval, the CTDOT has access to $52.5 million allocated to the state to deploy the strategies outlined in its plan. The funding allows Connecticut to expedite the deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and continue its commitment to establish an interconnected charging network, ensuring access and reliability statewide. To view the approved plan, visit portal.ct.gov/NEVI. "We appreciate the Federal Highway Administration for quickly approving our 2026 NEVI plan," said Department of Transportation Deputy Commissioner Laoise King. "With this approval we will continue moving forward with grant awards to help expand the state's electric vehicle charging network." CTDOT plans to use NEVI funding for the upgrade of existing and construction of new Direct Current (DC) fast charging infrastructure. NEVI funding is allocated as grants to private, public, and nonprofit entities that will build, own, maintain, and operate chargers. The program pays up to 80% of eligible costs for charging infrastructure with awardees providing the remaining 20% match. While CTDOT distributes the federal funding, it will not own or operate any NEVI-funded electric vehicle chargers. To date, CTDOT has made nine conditional awards which utilizes $5.4 million. Funds are first being spent on stations located along Connecticut's Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs), of I-91, I-95, I-84, I-395, and Route 7. After building out stations along AFCs, Phase 2 of NEVI will focus on community charging. All NEVI stations must have at least four charging ports with a minimum power level of 150kW. These charging stations will be open to the public 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year. Data from the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles and Atlas Public Policy on the EValuateCT Dashboard indicate that more than 59,000 electric vehicles were registered within the state at the end 2024, an increase of 8,300 from the previous year. For more information on Connecticut's NEVI plan, visit portal.ct.gov/NEVI. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

CTDOT is Hosting Free Car Seat Checks Across Connecticut for Child Passenger Safety Week

CTDOT will host a series of free child passenger safety events in recognition of Child Passenger Safety Week, September 21–27, 2025. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Free Car Seat Checks Across Connecticut for Child Passenger Safety Week Posted on September 23 , 2025 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will host a series of free child passenger safety events in recognition of Child Passenger Safety Week, September 21–27, 2025. Parents, guardians, and caregivers are invited to attend and receive hands-on guidance from certified child passenger safety technicians, who will demonstrate proper car seat installation and use to help keep children safe on the road. Motor vehicle crashes remain one of the leading causes of death among children. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 700 children tragically lost their lives in passenger vehicle crashes in 2023, with over 125,000 more suffering injuries. In Connecticut in 2023, 48 children under 13 years old were injured due to the lack of restraint use in a crash. "Keeping our youngest passengers safe must always be a top priority," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Deputy Commissioner Laoise King. "Car seats are proven to save lives, yet nearly half are not installed correctly. Child Passenger Safety Week is an opportunity to give parents and caregivers the tools, information, and support they need to make sure every child is properly secured every time they're on the road." In 2023, more than a third (43%) of children who died while riding in passenger vehicles were unrestrained. Moreover, a NHTSA study found that while most parents believe they are correctly installing their car seats, about half (46%) are not. Common mistakes include using the wrong type of car seat for the child's age and size and improper installation, both of which can leave children vulnerable in the event of a crash. Properly used car seats can reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers in passenger cars. At each free event, trained technicians will work directly with parents, guardians, and caregivers to provide step-by-step guidance on car seat safety. They will check that each seat is the right fit for the child's age and size and confirm that it is installed correctly. Attendees will also be reminded to register their car seats with the manufacturer to ensure they receive important recall notifications.   Child Seat Check-Up events will be held during Child Passenger Safety Week at the following locations:   Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. Griffin Hospital, Griffin Health Community Outreach parking lot, 4 Mountain St., Derby To book your free appointment, please email Cathi Kellett at ckellett@griffinhealth.org   Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Torrington Police Department, 10 Litchfield Street (Riverview parking lot), Torrington To book your free appointment, please email Lt. Daniel Matthews at danielmatthrews@torringtonct.org   Thursday, September 25, 2025, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Glastonbury Police Department's car seat clinic will be held at the Glastonbury Fire Department, Company 1, 2825 Main Street, Glastonbury To book your free appointment, please email Sergey Sharov, at sergey.sharov@glastonbury-ct.gov   Saturday, September 27, 2025, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Cromwell Fire Department, Coles Road Firehouse, 105 Coles Road, Cromwell To book your free appointment, please call Lt. Alan Dominy at 860-385-3880 or email adominy82@gmail.com   Saturday, September 27, 2025, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Enfield Central Library, 104 Middle Road, Enfield To book your free appointment, please email safekidsct@connecticutchildrens.org   Saturday, September 27, 2025, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Yale New Haven Health's car seat clinic will be held at the Westport Train Station Lot 1, Charles & Park Street, Westport. To book your free appointment, please call 203-200-KIDS (5437) or email Carseats@ynhh.org     All events are free and open to the public, but appointments must be made in advance where indicated. Parents, guardians, and caregivers can also visit www.nhtsa.gov/therightseat to learn other tips on car seat safety, watch how-to videos, and sign up for car seat recall notifications. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

CTDOT Celebrates National Roundabouts Week

Web Version     CTDOT Celebrates National Roundabouts Week Posted on September 12 , 2025 During National Roundabouts Week, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is highlighting the critical role modern roundabouts play in enhancing roadway safety. Circular in shape, a modern roundabout is a type of intersection that moves traffic one way in a counterclockwise direction around a center island. Its channelized approaches force vehicles to slow down and yield to crossing pedestrians or bicyclists and traffic already in the circle. Rules of the roundabout: Slow down. Going slower provides more time to make decisions and be better prepared to yield to other road users. It also helps reduce the likelihood and severity of crashes. Look around. When approaching the roundabout, look for signs and markings about speed and lane choice. Be ready to yield. Drivers entering the roundabout must yield to traffic in all lanes of the roundabout, not just in the lane closest to them. Bicyclists should enter the roundabout with vehicles or dismount to use sidewalks and crosswalks. The modern roundabout configuration results in a roughly 80% reduction in fatal and serious injuries at formerly signalized and two-way stop-controlled intersections, according to the Federal Highway Administration. Here in Connecticut, a study of five roundabouts found an 81% reduction in severe crashes and a 44% reduction in total crashes. "The conversion of signalized and stop-controlled intersections to modern roundabouts has been shown to significantly reduce both the number and impact of crashes. We strongly support building roundabouts where appropriate to help keep people moving safely and efficiently," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "If your city or town is considering a roundabout project, we encourage you to reach out. We have a team that stands ready to help." As a recognized Safe System solution, more than 10,000 roundabouts have been installed in cities and towns across the U.S. There are currently more than 30 roundabouts on state and local roads in Connecticut, with more than a dozen planned or under construction. In Monroe, a roundabout at Route 110 and Route 111 opened in 2018. The project was designed to improve safety at the intersection. "The crashes have been reduced in both frequency and severity," said Monroe Police Chief Keith White. "The roundabout was a successful venture for the state and beneficial for the town of Monroe." The CTDOT Roundabout Committee is comprised of experienced engineers who assist with the planning, designing, and constructing of roundabouts around the state – serving as a resource for Connecticut cities and towns. The Committee reviews roundabout concepts, advises on good design practices, and can help answer questions on size, suitability, materials, pavement markings, and more. For more information and resources on Connecticut roundabouts, visit ct.gov/dot. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly