Sen. Kelly Advocates for Waterbury Line Service Expansion

Today Senate Republican Leader Kevin Kelly (R-21) testified before the Connecticut General Assembly’s Transportation Committee in support of expanding passenger rail service on Metro-North’s Waterbury Branch Line to provide more frequent service at the Seymour and Shelton/Derby stations.

Sen. Kelly testified in support of Senate Bill 576 which he introduced this session. This bill seeks to expand frequency of service along the Waterbury Branch Line of the Metro-North Commuter Railroad in the Naugatuck Valley.

“The Waterbury Line has been overlooked for far too long by those in power,” Senator Kelly said. “Rail service in the Naugatuck Valley in particular must be a focus for Connecticut. There is so much untapped potential in the Naugatuck Valley and surrounding communities along the rail line. Enhanced rail service can help us nurture and develop opportunities. Increasing rail capacity is vital to economic development and job growth in our region. Especially during this time of increased hardship, public transit and job development must be prioritized.”

Senator Kelly thanked lawmakers on both sides of the aisle at the hearing for coming together to support the Waterbury Line and recognize the importance of supporting transportation especially during the pandemic.

“The Valley legislative delegation and the Waterbury Rail Line Caucus have worked collaboratively and bipartisanly in their approach to best meet the needs of Valley families,” said Kelly.

Watch Senator Kelly’s full remarks from today’s public hearing: https://www.facebook.com/189054484455050/videos/1382546545432499