CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NEWS RELEASE 2800 BERLIN TURNPIKE P.O. BOX 317546 NEWINGTON CONNECTICUT, 06131-7546

FOR RELEASE: February 21, 2018

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS TELEPHONE: (860) 594-3062 FAX: (860) 594-3065 WEB SITE: www.ct.gov/dot

---

The Connecticut Department of Transportation's (Department) Office of Engineering is currently developing plans to realign the intersection of Route 318 and Route 219 to improve safety in the project corridor.

The proposed improvements to the project area will include the closure of the existing connector road between Route 318 and Route 219. Route 219 is proposed to be realigned to a conventional "T" type intersection. The project includes minor widening in the vicinity of the intersection to provide a bypass lane for through traffic on Route  318  southbound. The project also includes  minor  removal  of  rock  outcroppings on  Route  219 and vegetation removal on Route 318 to improve area sightlines.

The present schedule indicates that the design will be completed in May 2020, with construction anticipated to start in winter 2020. This project will be undertaken with 80% federal and 20% state funds.

It is the Department's policy to keep the public informed and involved when such projects are undertaken. It is important that the community share its concerns with us to assist in the project's development. A public informational meeting will be conducted upon the completion of the preliminary design. At this time, it is not anticipated that a formal public hearing will be necessary.

Anyone  interested  in  receiving  information  on  this  project  may do so  by  contacting        Mr. William W. Britnell, Principal Engineer of Highway Design, at (860) 594-3274, or by e-mail  at William.Britnell@ct.gov. Please make reference to State Project Number 0005-0114.