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

FOR RELEASE: February 4, 2014

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

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      The Connecticut Department of Transportation today announced that bike racks will be installed on 50 of Connecticut's new M-8 rail cars serving the New Haven commuter rail line into New York City.

      The first 50 will serve as a pilot program to give train crews a chance to identify any issues with use and maintenance. Additional customer feedback will also be evaluated. After the test period, it is anticipated that all remaining pairs of M-8 cars will be equipped with bicycle racks.

      "Our customers expressed a clear desire for bike racks on the new cars and we listened," said Commissioner James P. Redeker, noting that the installation will begin in the next several months.

      In 2011 and 2012, prototype bike racks were installed on some cars to give commuters a chance to test their viability. They were very well received.

      Connecticut has ordered 405 new M-8 cars and 300 have now been placed into service on the New Haven Line, the busiest commuter rail line in the country. All 405 should be delivered by the end of 2014.

      Bicycles will not be permitted on peak-hour trains on weekday mornings and evenings.