Upcoming Railroad Crossing Safety Improvement Project on Route 6 in Bristol

Detours will be in place during construction in July

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 anticipated to take place in mid-July.

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 for approximately three days during construction. Bicyclists and pedestrians will still be able to cross through a designated area and will not be detoured. Posted State Highway detours will utilize Routes 229, 72, and 69 to bypass the construction site. Motorists and Commercial Vehicle Operators are required to utilize posted detour routes to avoid local streets and low underpasses.

All businesses on Route 6 will remain accessible throughout the short-term construction project.

“This is an important project that ensures the rail crossing is safe for freight operators and the public. We appreciate the public’s patience during construction this summer and ask them to follow the posted detour routes to ensure safe travel,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin Limmer.

The nearby railroad crossing at Maple Avenue will also be replaced as part of this project. Only one railroad crossing will be closed at any given time. This work – funded through a CTDOT Rail Freight Improvement Program (RFIP) grant – is being performed in coordination between the CTDOT, City of Bristol, first responders, bus and transit providers, and Berkshire and Eastern Railroad (the company that owns the freight rail line).

An additional announcement, complete with detour route, will be released when the construction date is finalized. Members of the public with questions are encouraged to contact the CTDOT Customer Care Center at (860) 594-2560 or [email protected].