The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has announced a series of public meetings and pop-up events to discuss proposed fare increases on rail services in the state. These changes aim to support ongoing service levels and investments in Connecticut’s rail networks.
The state plans to invest over $6 billion in capital projects as part of CTDOT’s five-year Capital Plan. This includes improvements such as the WALK Bridge on the New Haven Line in Norwalk, upgrades along the Waterbury Branch Line, and a new train station on the Hartford Line in Enfield.
The proposed fare adjustments include a 5% increase for Metro-North Railroad services in Connecticut, CTrail Hartford Line, and Shore Line East services. The first increase is set for September 1, 2025, with another scheduled for July 1, 2026.
“We invite the public to join us for one of our many meetings and pop-up events to learn more about these proposals, learn more about our investments across the state, and share their feedback,” said Benjamin Limmer, Bureau Chief of Public Transportation at CTDOT. “Whether you come in person, join online, call or email, we’ll be accepting all comments and feedback between now and July 6.”
Public meetings will provide information on these fare changes. The comment period runs from June 6 to July 6, 2025. Meetings will be held both in-person—in Stamford on June 23 and New Haven on June 24—and virtually via Zoom on June 30 and July 1.
In-person meeting locations include Stamford Ferguson Public Library and Kennedy Mitchell Hall of Records in New Haven. Registration is encouraged but only required for those wishing to comment during meetings. Virtual meeting registration is mandatory.
CTDOT staff will also host pop-ups at New London Union Station on June 25 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and at Hartford Union Station on June 26 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., where they will receive public feedback directly.
For more details about attending these meetings or learning about proposed changes, visit ct.gov/dot/proposedtransitchanges.
