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The completed Hartford Line will triple the number of trains between New Haven and Hartford and doubling the service between Hartford and Springfield, Mass. The program is now in construction, and work is progressing rapidly, transportation officials said.
Four station projects are in construction and due to be completed before the launch of service, while critical fiber optic signal cable and communication nodes are installed along the corridor to power a brand new signal system, including Positive Train Control.
Every weekend, centuries-old and undersized culverts and drainage structures are replaced. The roadbed is currently being excavated for the second track.
“We are getting this project done. Instead of letting this languish for years and years, we are stepping up to the plate as a state to stand up for better transportation, more jobs, and economic development. This is a transformative project – and we have a commitment to get it done,” said Malloy, who chairs the Bond Commission.
“The future Hartford Line will provide access to jobs for residents along the corridor as well as better connections to Metro-North service along the Connecticut coastline. Communities that will be served by the Hartford Line are planning transit-oriented development projects around their stations, including Meriden, which already has a mixed use development in construction right across the street from the station. With this agreement, we are taking the next steps to achieve a best-in-class transportation system.”
The state Bond Commission next week will vote to approve an allocation of $155 million to complete construction of the future Hartford Line, a final installment to upgrade the line and launch expanded rail service between New Haven and Hartford. As part of the agreement, Amtrak will deliver service with a clear ceiling for costs and a clear timetable for completion.
This action brings the total funding for programs in this corridor to $643 million – $208 million of federal funds and $435 million of state funds.
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