The Connecticut Department of Transportation announced on Mar. 24 that select weekday trains on the Hartford Line will be replaced with bus service from April 21, 2026, through October 30, 2026, due to Amtrak construction projects.
This adjustment is necessary to support infrastructure improvements along the corridor, including work at the new Windsor Locks Station site. Construction will take place Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., and one Amtrak train will operate as a bus for its entire route during this period.
According to the department, details about the temporary schedule will be released in April 2026. Planned upgrades include installing new interlockings, improving drainage systems, and enhancing maintenance and safety at several rail grade crossings. “These infrastructure projects are a vital step in modernizing the Hartford Line,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Jeffrey Gonneville. “A new Windsor Locks station, upgraded track infrastructure, and safer crossings will deliver more reliable and accessible service for everyone who depends on this line. We thank the public for their patience as this work is completed.”
Passengers are encouraged to purchase tickets before boarding using either the CTrail eTix mobile app or ticket vending machines at stations. Riders can also visit HartfordLine.com or Amtrak.com for updated information and sign up for alerts about service changes.
The Connecticut Department of Transportation promotes safety through initiatives such as work zone awareness and supports community infrastructure via grants according to its official website. The agency maintains its headquarters in Newington while managing transportation services statewide according to its official website. It provides an intermodal network designed to improve quality of life and economic vitality according to its official website.
Garrett Eucalitto serves as commissioner overseeing policies and initiatives at the department according to its official website. The department extends transportation services throughout Connecticut according to its official website and supports community connectivity through grant programs while engaging with contractors and consultants according to its official website.
