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

FOR RELEASE: October 27, 2014

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

New Traffic and Transit Technology Unveiled

                The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) has launched new communications technology to keep motorists and train travelers better informed. The “real time” travel information signs along interstate highways keep drivers informed of travel times to specific locations, while large electronic boards at New Haven’s Union Station show up-to-the-minute train arrival and departure times and track information for Metro-North, Shore Line East and Amtrak trains.

                “The best way to help people make smart travel decisions is to keep them informed of current conditions,” said DOT Commissioner James P. Redeker. “This is another transportation investment that is making our system work better for everyone, whether they are commuting to work or traveling as a tourist.”

               At Union Station, a large monitor has been placed above the stairs and escalators leading to the train platforms. Additional smaller monitors have been installed around the interior of the station and on platforms outside. Similar improvements were made to the State Street Station in New Haven as part of an overall facelift including code compliance improvements and other rehabilitation and upgrades at the two stations.

               The older “Solari Board” at Union Station with its flip letter/number display board was given to the Danbury Rail Museum. 

               The interstate highway sign system, which became operational October 15, uses electronic signs along the highways to give the travel time in minutes from the location of the sign to a specific exit or other destination. The system uses aggregated traffic data from a variety of sources resulting in a highly accurate method to measure average vehicle speeds and travel times.

                Real time travel information will initially be posted on 37 signs along Interstates 95, 84, 91, 291, 384, 395 and 691. The system will be expanded in the future to cover additional roadways.

               “FHWA applauds Connecticut’s new system to provide real-time traveler information for its Interstate highways, that offers travel time information to drivers so they can make more informed decisions about their travel,” said Amy Jackson-Grove, Division Administrator for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

                DOT Commissioner James P. Redeker reminded motorists that they can also go online before getting in the car to check the DOT’s interactive map showing road construction and traffic incidents, and to sign up for e-traffic alerts through the website – www.ct.gov/dot. Rail alerts and updates are also available on the site.