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

FOR RELEASE: September 25, 2018

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

CTDOT ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF A SECOND RAIL TRACK ON THE CTrail hartford LINE BETWEEN HARTFORD AND WINDSOR

Both tracks now in service for passengers of the rail line

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced the completion and opening of a second track on the CTrail Hartford Line, between Hartford and Windsor. It signifies the completion of four miles of track construction as part of the current New Haven-Hartford-Springfield (NHHS) Rail Program. Some follow-up construction activity will be ongoing through mid-November.

CTDOT Commissioner James P. Redeker stated, “This is another milestone for the NHHS Rail Program and the Hartford Line service. It also represents another step closer towards the 2030 vision of expanded rail passenger service in New England.”

The new second track provides reliability allowing trains north of Hartford to pass each other quickly and efficiently. It provides additional rail capacity that benefits both passenger and freight service, further reducing potential delays.

Future phases of construction include installation of a second track between Windsor and Enfield, which is currently in design. It would connect with the existing double track between Enfield and Springfield. Also, the CTDOT is in design for new stations in North Haven, Newington, West Hartford, Windsor, Windsor Locks and Enfield, however, construction funding has yet to be secured.  CTDOT continues to seek funds for construction of these stations, as well as for the second track between Windsor and Enfield.

Travelers may reference the service schedule at www.hartfordline.com.