The Connecticut Department of Transportation announced on Mar. 11 the award of $20 million in grants through its Rail Freight Infrastructure Program to support projects aimed at improving safety, expanding capacity, and strengthening the reliability of the state’s freight rail network.
These grants are being supplemented by nearly $4 million in private railroad investment, reflecting a public-private partnership intended to reduce highway congestion and support economic growth across Connecticut. The program is designed to enhance freight mobility and ensure that essential goods continue moving efficiently throughout the region.
Governor Ned Lamont said, “Connecticut’s freight rail network is moving essential supplies and goods across the region that people and businesses rely on every day. A strong economy depends on reliable infrastructure, and that’s exactly what these investments deliver. These grants reflect our strong partnership with the freight railroads and our shared commitment to safety and reliability.”
Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said, “Improving the state’s freight rail infrastructure is a critical component of strengthening Connecticut’s economy. Investments in freight rail make the supply chain more resilient, create jobs, and establish a strong system for future commerce. These improvements will allow more freight to be moved safely and more quickly, while reducing highway congestion and air pollution. I look forward to the continued partnership with the freight railroads as we keep the state’s and region’s economy moving forward.” Eucalitto serves as commissioner overseeing policies and initiatives at CTDOT according to the official website.
The awarded grants include funding for six railroad companies: Connecticut Southern Railroad will receive over $4.4 million for bridge repairs, grade crossing replacements, yard upgrades in Hartford, and track work in Wethersfield; Housatonic Railroad Company will get over $2.6 million for grade crossing improvements in New Milford and tie replacements; Naugatuck Railroad will receive about $4.6 million for crossing upgrades in Torrington, signal enhancements, new track construction, car storage additions, and bridge tie replacements; New England Central Railroad will get over $1.5 million for grade crossing work in Franklin and Windham along with signal relocation; Providence and Worcester Railroad is set to receive nearly $4.9 million for track upgrades on Wethersfield Secondary line enabling heavier cars; Pan Am Southern will get about $1.8 million for various track safety improvements.
According to the official website, CTDOT promotes safety through initiatives such as work zone awareness campaigns while supporting community infrastructure via grant programs statewide from its headquarters in Newington. The department provides an intermodal transportation network designed to improve quality of life and economic vitality throughout Connecticut.
Funding authorization comes under Connecticut General Statute §13b-236 with legislative approval for this cycle totaling $20 million in grant funding. More information about CTDOT’s efforts supporting community connectivity through grant programs can be found on its official website.