An Important Transportation Upgrade on the Danbury Branch Line is a GO!

Hartford, CT – State Senator Toni Boucher (R-Wilton) released the following statement today re: the State Bond Commission authorization of money for the first group of projects under “Let’s Go CT!” transportation initiative. Specifically included is $4 million for the design, engineering, and construction of a new dock yard on the Danbury Branch Rail Line in Norwalk that will allow the state to increase capacity and service on the Danbury Line.

“Though the administration and I have differed on some things, transportation infrastructure upgrades are a priority where we completely agree and have my full support. I appreciate today’s investment in the Norwalk to Danbury Branch Line after so many years of work from the local delegation to maintain, upgrade and modernize this line.

“The Danbury line has great potential to improve economic development in the region. Unfortunately, over the years money for the necessary upgrades was derailed or diverted and not made available for its intended purpose.

“Commuters have been forced to use other lines that are better equipped yet most of the big office complexes are ironically located next to this rail line.

“During the last eighteen years I have worked to preserve this rail system when attempts were made to shut it down and most recently to up-grade the signal system on this branch line which is finally now complete. Electrification is the next big step. That upgrade will be crucial for making the Danbury line compatible with the mainline of Metro North in Stamford, New Haven and New York. It will take some time and a big effort. But, as I have learned from the past, a squeaky wheel is required and we have more of them every year”

Sen. Boucher is the Ranking member of the Transportation Committee.