The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is alerting the public that the replacement of the railroad crossing on Route 6 (Farmington Avenue) in Bristol is scheduled to begin at approximately 5 a.m. on Saturday, July 13, 2024. To ensure the safety of workers and the public, the area near the rail crossing will be closed to all vehicular traffic for approximately 72 hours.
This private construction project is being conducted by Berkshire and Eastern Railroad, the company that owns the freight rail line.
The existing railroad crossing, located on Route 6 near the intersection of Route 69 (Burlington Avenue) is being completely replaced with all-new materials to enhance safety, provide a smooth passage for motorists, as well as ensuring the long-term viability of freight rail service in the region.
The work to replace the railroad crossing will require a vehicle detour, while bicyclists and pedestrians will still be able to cross through a designated area and will not be detoured. All businesses on Route 6 will remain accessible throughout the short-term construction project.
Posted State Highway detours will utilize Routes 69, 72, and 229 to bypass the construction site. Motorists and Commercial Vehicle Operators are required to utilize posted detour routes to avoid local streets and low underpasses.
“This project ensures the freight line remains in a state of good repair. To ensure the safety of everyone, vehicles cannot travel through the work zone. We ask motorists to follow the posted detour routes during this short-term construction project,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin Limmer. “We appreciate the support and collaboration with the City of Bristol, local businesses, and residents while this important safety improvement project takes place.”
The nearby railroad crossing at Maple Street is also being replaced. That work is scheduled to begin at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, July 16. A 36-hour detour will be in place in the immediate vicinity of the rail crossing.
These projects are funded through a CTDOT Rail Freight Improvement Program (RFIP) grant. Work is being performed in coordination between the CTDOT, City of Bristol, first responders, bus and transit providers, and Berkshire and Eastern Railroad.
Extreme weather may alter the project schedules. Members of the public with questions are encouraged to contact the CTDOT Customer Care Center at (860) 594-2560 or DOT.CustomerCare@ct.gov.
Route 6 (Farmington Avenue) Detour:
Maple Street Detour:
