Statement by Senator Toni Boucher re July 28, 2009 groundbreaking ceremony at Cannondale Train Station in Wilton

Senator Toni Boucher (R-26) made these remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony hosted by Governor M. Jodi Rell on Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at the Cannondale Train Station in Wilton. The project includes replacing the manual signals on the Danbury line with a centralized control and signal system. This is the first rail project that will be paid for with federal stimulus funds. State Department of Transportation Commissioner Joseph Marie also participated in the groundbreaking ceremony.

“Everyone who depends on this rail line thanks Governor Rell and Commissioner Marie for being here in person to celebrate this momentous occasion for Fairfield County commuters.This is the first rail project paid for with federal stimulus money – and it is great news for us because we have been waiting for a long time. I have focused on the importance of moving this vital project forward as it has the potential of dramatically improving the economy of our region of the state. The project replaces manual signals along the Danbury Metro-North line with modern, remote-controlled signals. The Danbury branch line currently doesn’t operate with a computerized signal system. Instead, conductors operate the switches manually.

I cannot tell you how delighted I am that this project is finally becoming a reality. Governor Rell has made transportation a focus of her administration because she understands our needs, especially in congested Fairfield County. Many commuters on this rail line have expressed their gratitude to both our Governor and our DOT Commissioner Joseph Marie for their action on this critical project. It will go a long way toward improving their ability to travel between work and home. The fact that we will be able to upgrade the entire line all the way to Danbury, rather than just to Wilton as first envisioned, shows that we can make things happen when we work together. There is clearly a new way of doing things at the DOT and I commend and thank Governor Rell and Commissioner Marie for their leadership.”