CTDOT Unveils $15.7 Billion Five-Year Capital Plan

Plan advances major investments in roads, bridges, and public transportation. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Unveils $15.7 Billion Five-Year Capital Plan Featuring Hundreds of Statewide Projects Posted on February 2 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today published a five-year Capital Plan outlining more than $15 billion in transportation projects planned across Connecticut during Federal Fiscal Years 2026-2030. Supported by continued federal and state investments, Connecticut's transportation infrastructure is steadily improving. CTDOT is advancing projects ranging from bridge repairs and roadway redesigns to public transit improvements and facility upgrades, making travel safer and more accessible for everyone. "With this plan, we're rebuilding roads and bridges, modernizing public transportation, and making it easier and safer to travel in Connecticut," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "These long-term investments will improve safety, better connect our towns and cities, and help our state economy thrive." The Capital Plan, funding breakdowns, and project overviews can be viewed at portal.ct.gov/CapitalPlans. A list of all state-managed projects in design or in construction can also be explored using an interactive map. CTDOT anticipates programming approximately $3.78 billion in federal and state capital funding for all transportation modes in Fiscal Year 2026. The 2026 Capital Program includes approximately: $2.16 billion for bus and rail, including MOVE New Haven Bus Rapid Transit System, upgrading and building various train stations along the Waterbury Branch Line and Hartford Line, and replacing the Devon Railroad Bridge between Milford and Stratford. $1.60 billion for roadway and bridge infrastructure, including I-91/I-691/Route 15 Interchange Improvements in Meriden and Middletown, I-95 Gold Star Memorial Bridge Rehabilitation and Multimodal Improvements in Groton and New London, and Rehabilitation of the Putnam Bridge in Glastonbury and Wethersfield. $23.4 million to support renovating transportation facilities across the state, including expanded truck parking in Southington and a new CTDOT maintenance facility in Simsbury. In total, the Capital Plan programs $15.70 billion in planned funding to improve safety and mobility throughout the state. Members of the public can provide comments on the Capital Plan by emailing DOT.CapitalPlan@ct.gov or by utilizing an online form. The public comment period ends February 15, 2026. Those comments will help inform the development and revisions of future Capital Plans. For more information about the Connecticut Department of Transportation, visit ct.gov/dot. Public Information Meeting on Train Station Improvements Project in Madison Posted on January 30 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will conduct an in-person public information meeting concerning the Madison Railroad Station Improvements Project on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the Madison Town Campus, Conference Room A, at 8 Campus Drive in Madison at 5:30 p.m. The meeting location is ADA accessible. The public information meeting is being held to provide the public and local community the opportunity to offer comments or ask questions regarding the proposed project. For more information about the project and ways to provide comments and ask questions, please visit portal.ct.gov/DOTMadison0310-0058.   "This project relates directly to CTDOT's ongoing commitment to improve commuter rail services.  The proposed work at the town's Shore Line East Station will make commuter rail services modern, reliable and convenient so that the future transportation needs of Connecticut's residents are met," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Project Manager Scott Anderson. "We encourage the public to attend this meeting to share their feedback with the CTDOT project team to incorporate into the design."   Right-of-way impacts associated with the proposed improvements include partial takes from the town, and an access easement and permanent easement for a wetland mitigation site on Copse Road. Construction is anticipated to begin in fall 2027 based on the availability of funding, acquisition of rights of way, and approval of permit(s). The estimated construction cost for this project is approximately $35 million. This project is anticipated to be undertaken with 100% state funds.  Individuals with hearing and/or speech disabilities may dial 711 for Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS). Individuals with limited internet access may also request that project information be mailed to them within one week by contacting Scott Anderson at Scott.T.Anderson@ct.gov or (860) 594-3301.  Language assistance may be requested by contacting the CTDOT Language Assistance Call Line (860) 594-2109. Requests should be made at least five business days prior to the meeting. Language assistance is provided at no cost to the public and efforts will be made to respond to timely requests for assistance.  Members of the public can submit comments and questions during the two-week public comment period following the meeting. Please submit comments and questions by Wednesday, February 25, 2026, to (860) 594-2020 or to Scott Anderson at Scott.T.Anderson@ct.gov or (860) 594-3301. Please reference Project No. 310-0058 in the email or voicemail.     CTDOT Highlights Decline in 2025 Traffic Fatalities Posted on January 28 , 2026 Preliminary data and early 2026 fatality figures released The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today highlighted that traffic fatalities in the state fell 12% in 2025 compared with the previous year. Preliminary data from CTDOT's Highway Safety Office show 274 roadway deaths in 2025, down from 312 in 2024. While the overall number of traffic fatalities declined, data show troubling trends for vulnerable road users. In 2025, bicycle fatalities increased 67% and pedestrian deaths rose 6% compared with the five-year average, with speeding remaining a leading factor in serious crashes. The announcement was made Wednesday during a press conference at the Connecticut State Police Troop H Barracks in Hartford. Early 2026 data show 12 traffic fatalities statewide through January 27, compared with 23 during the same period in 2025 and 21 in 2024. "While we are encouraged by the reduction in fatalities, even one death on our roadways is too many," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "We remain focused on improving safety for everyone who uses Connecticut roads." "Since I arrived on the job in late 2023, reducing highway fatalities has been one of our top priorities at the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection," said Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins. "Our targeted enforcement has helped to decrease fatal collisions on roadways patrolled by the Connecticut State Police by 26 percent. We will continue to work closely with our state and municipal partners to reduce fatalities in the weeks and months to come." Officials noted pedestrian fatalities remain a concern despite the overall decline. "Traffic safety requires a shared commitment," said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. "Enforcement, education, and responsible driving all play a role in preventing serious crashes." "Even with overall fatalities down, our work isn't done," said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. "Police across the state remain committed to keeping our roadways safe by addressing behaviors that lead to serious crashes, including speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving. Everyone has a role to play in preventing tragedies on our roadways." The figures are preliminary and subject to revision as crash investigations are completed. Some incidents initially classified as traffic fatalities may later be excluded if they do not meet federal Fatality Analysis Reporting System criteria. Fatality data are compiled by the Highway Safety Office, with analysis support from the Connecticut Transportation Safety Research Center at the University of Connecticut. More information on Connecticut roadway safety initiatives is available at portal.ct.gov/dot. CTDOT Donates $10,000 to Local Organizations After Winning National Transportation Award Posted on January 22 , 2026 [Download image in high quality]     The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today proudly presented $5,000 donations to the Andrew DiDomenico Memorial Foundation and Connecticut Foodshare. These donations were made possible through CTDOT's recent win in the 2025 America's Transportation Awards. CTDOT earned the prestigious Grand Prize for its emergency project demolishing, and then rebuilding, the Fairfield Avenue Bridge over I-95 in Norwalk in 2024. Along with this award came a $10,000 prize, which CTDOT chose to donate to these two organizations. Through their work, they're making a meaningful impact in Connecticut communities. "Giving back to the communities we serve is at the heart of what we do at CTDOT," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "From the moment we were in the running for the Grand Prize, we knew we wanted to share this recognition with organizations that make a difference every day." "We established the Andrew DiDomenico Memorial Foundation to honor the life and legacy of Andrew, who was tragically killed at the young age of 26 while working for the CTDOT. The mission of the foundation is to grant scholarships, make meaningful donations in Andrew's memory, and to help raise awareness of increased work zone safety," said Shari DiDomenico, Andrew's mother. "We are extremely grateful to receive this very generous gift. Thank you to the CTDOT for choosing us as one of the recipients." "We are incredibly grateful to the Connecticut Department of Transportation for selecting Connecticut Foodshare as a recipient of this generous donation," said Jason Jakubowski, President and CEO of Connecticut Foodshare. "We applaud CTDOT's extraordinary work and their choice to reinvest this recognition back into the community. This generosity will help ensure more families across Connecticut have access to the nutritious food they need." The Andrew DiDomenico Memorial Foundation was established to honor Andrew's legacy by providing scholarships and donations in his name. Andrew DiDomenico, a valued member of the CTDOT team, was tragically killed by an impaired driver in a work zone in June 2024. Connecticut Foodshare supports individuals and families – from one end of the state to the other – by addressing root causes, creating long-term solutions, and distributing nutritious food through local partner programs in an effort to alleviate hunger. They help serve the more than 500,000 people in Connecticut who are food insecure – and through its network of food pantries and meal programs, they distributed 54 million pounds of food in 2025. For more information about the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, visit transportation.org. For more information about the Andrew DiDomenico Memorial foundation, visit andrewdidomenico.com. For more information about Connecticut Foodshare, visit ctfoodshare.org. For more information on CTDOT, 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

CTDOT Highlights Dangers of Holiday Impaired Driving

Increased enforcement campaign runs through January 1, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Keeping Connecticut Safe: CTDOT Highlights Dangers of Holiday Impaired Driving Posted on December 23 , 2025 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is reminding motorists that celebrations and impaired driving are a dangerous and often deadly combination. As holiday travel ramps up, CTDOT is partnering with state and local law enforcement to launch an expanded impaired driving enforcement effort running now through January 1, 2026. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes in the United States, especially during the holiday season. In Connecticut in 2023, the most recent year with verified data, 113 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes. "Too many lives are lost to impaired driving, especially during a time meant for joy and togetherness," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "We urge drivers to make responsible choices. If you plan to drink, plan a sober ride. Connecticut's law enforcement community will be out in force to identify and stop impaired drivers before tragedies occur." NHTSA data also show that alcohol impairment is significantly more common at night. In 2023, the rate of alcohol impairment among drivers involved in fatal crashes was three times higher at night than during the day. Drivers ages 21–34 made up the largest percentage of impaired drivers involved in fatal crashes. "We ask all drivers to be our partners in safety: if you plan to drink, please designate a driver or use a rideshare," said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. "Our Troopers will be on the roads to protect motorists from highway hazards, but we cannot do this alone; we need everyone's cooperation to ensure safe holiday travel. If you see a hazardous or suspected impaired driver, this is a true emergency and should be reported by calling 911." "Connecticut's police officers are committed to keeping our roadways safe this holiday season. Extra patrols are being deployed across the state to detect and apprehend intoxicated drivers," said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. "You can avoid these patrols by using a designated sober driver if you have been drinking. Remember, buzzed driving is drunk driving." To help prevent impaired-driving crashes, CTDOT urges residents to: Plan ahead and line up a sober ride before celebrating. Use rideshares, taxis, or public transportation if you've been drinking. Step in to prevent friends or family from driving impaired, take their keys, and help them find a safe ride. Report dangerous drivers immediately by calling 911. Driving under the influence of any substance, whether alcohol, cannabis, prescription medication, or over-the-counter drugs, is illegal and dangerous. This includes substances that impair judgment and reaction time, even in states where cannabis laws have changed. For more information on the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign and tips for staying safe, visit nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving. 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 Reminds Families to Prioritize Older Driver Safety

Older Driver Safety Awareness Week is December 1–5, 2025 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Connecticut Department of Transportation Reminds Families to Prioritize Older Driver Safety Posted on December 1 , 2025 During Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, December 1–5, 2025, the Connecticut Department of Transportation is teaming up with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to encourage families and caregivers to begin open, proactive conversations about safe driving as loved ones age. This annual observance highlights the safety and mobility needs of older adults. Between 2014 and 2023, the U.S. population of people 65 and older grew by 28%. In 2023, NHTSA reported 7,810 fatal crashes involving drivers aged 65 and older, accounting for 19% of all fatal traffic crashes nationwide. In Connecticut in 2023, the last year of verifiable data, 51 older adults (65+) were involved in fatal traffic crashes, accounting for 17% of all roadway fatalities. Getting older doesn't mean it's time to stop driving, but it's important to regularly evaluate how you, or your loved ones, drive. "Aging is a natural part of life, and its effects on driving ability can vary from person to person," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "If you've noticed changes in reaction time, nighttime visibility, or physical mobility, it may be time to start a conversation about safety. Having these conversations early helps older adults maintain their independence while staying safe behind the wheel." In Connecticut, state law allows drivers 60 and older to take a crash prevention course and receive a minimum 5% insurance discount. For more information and a list of providers, visit portal.ct.gov/dmv/resources/insurance-discounts. "In addition to having that conversation early on with your loved one to come up with a proactive driving plan and agreement, we also encourage experienced drivers to take advantage of resources like a crash prevention course," said Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Tony Guerrera. "Keeping your driving skills sharp and taking proactive steps will help keep you and those around you safe." CTDOT encourages families and caregivers to work with older adults to create a transportation plan that supports safe mobility. This may include: Scheduling routine vision and hearing appointments. Reviewing medications with a health care provider for possible driving-related side effects. Choosing daytime travel or less complex routes, when possible. Exploring adaptive vehicle equipment. Identifying non-driving transportation options if the need arises. NHTSA provides free resources to help older adults stay safe on the road and offers guidance for families and caregivers supporting a safe environment for everyone, whether driving, walking, or cycling. Learn more at 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

Seat Belts Save Lives: Something to Be Thankful for This Thanksgiving

CTDOT and Law Enforcement remind drivers to buckle up during annual Click It or Ticket Campaign. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Seat Belts Save Lives: Something to Be Thankful for This Thanksgiving Posted on November 26 , 2025 As families and friends prepare to gather for Thanksgiving, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and law enforcement agencies statewide are reminding everyone to buckle up to get to their holiday destinations safely. Beginning Thursday, November 27, and running through Friday, December 5, 2025, the annual Click It or Ticket campaign will be underway, focusing on seat belt safety through heightened enforcement and public awareness. The goal of the campaign is simple: increase seat belt use and prevent senseless tragedies during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. In 2023, 71 people lost their lives on Connecticut roadways while not wearing seat belts. Nationally, during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend in 2023, 47% of those killed in nighttime crashes and 38% of those killed in daytime crashes were unbuckled. "When the unexpected happens, that simple click of a seat belt can be the difference between tragedy and survival," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Seat belts save thousands of lives every year, which is why it's critical - before you put your car into drive - everyone in your vehicle is buckled up." This holiday season, drivers will see increased law enforcement on Connecticut roads. Officers will pull over anyone not wearing a seat belt and issue a citation – because enforcing seat belt laws saves lives. "When you get behind the wheel, buckling up should be as automatic as starting the engine. Our troopers are out in force because we know one simple action can mean the difference between walking away from a collision and not surviving at all," said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. "This Click It or Ticket campaign isn't about punishment: it's about readiness, responsibility, and respecting the lives in your vehicle. Buckle up every trip, every time." "Buckling seat belts for all passengers in a motor vehicle is the simplest and most effective way to prevent serious injuries in a crash, and it's also the easiest way to avoid a ticket," said Watertown Police Chief and Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee Josh Bernegger. Connecticut law requires all drivers and passengers, front and back, to wear a seat belt. Violators can face fines starting at $92 for a first offense. For more information on seat belt safety, please 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

Protect What You’re Thankful For: Never Drive Impaired

CTDOT encourages safe and responsible driving this holiday season. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Protect What You're Thankful For: Never Drive Impaired Posted on November 25 , 2025 As Thanksgiving approaches, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is joining the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to remind everyone that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. Whether you're driving across town or across the state, celebrating responsibly is the best way to ensure everyone makes it home safely. One of the most dangerous times on the road is the night before Thanksgiving, a night often associated with gatherings, reconnecting with friends, and increased alcohol consumption. Planning ahead for a sober ride, whether it's a designated driver, public transportation, a rideshare or a taxi, is critical to keeping everyone safe. In Connecticut between 2020-2024, during the Thanksgiving holiday (defined as the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through the Monday after) there were 83 crashes involving an impaired driver that resulted in 76 injuries and eight fatalities. Nationally, between 2019 and 2023, 868 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes during the Thanksgiving holiday period, accounting for more than one-third of all traffic fatalities during that time. In 2023 alone, 174 people lost their lives in drunk-driving crashes over the Thanksgiving weekend, with drivers ages 21–34 making up the largest share of those fatalities. "Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and celebration – but if you don't celebrate safely, lives can be changed in an instant," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your ability to drive. Planning ahead for a sober ride home helps ensure the holiday season is a time of gratitude, not tragedy." CTDOT recommends the following to keep yourself and others safe: Designate a sober driver before your celebration begins. Use a taxi, rideshare, or public transportation to get home safely. If a friend is about to drive after drinking, take their keys and help them get a safe ride home. If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact local law enforcement immediately. "As they patrol state roads and highways, Connecticut State Troopers are always on the lookout for impaired drivers. We ask the public to be our partners in public safety and call 911 if they suspect an impaired operator on the road – this is a true emergency and warrants an immediate response from law enforcement," said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. "Thanksgiving is not only a time for gathering with family and friends, but also to ensure that safety remains a priority on the road." "Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year. Connecticut police urge everyone to help keep our roadways safe by driving sober or choosing a designated driver," said Watertown Police Chief and Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee Josh Bernegger. This Thanksgiving, make safety part of your holiday celebration and ensure you and your loved ones get home safely. For more information on the dangers of impaired driving, visit nhsta.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