Stratford Delegation, Mayor Applaud Funding for Bridge Replacement Over Metro North Rail Line

STRATFORD – The Town of Stratford’s legislative delegation to the Connecticut General Assembly, including Senate Republican Leader Kevin Kelly, Senator Dennis Bradley, Representative Ben McGorty, Representative Joseph P. Gresko, and Representative Phil Young, were joined by Mayor Laura Hoydick to announce the approval of $25.1 million to finance the ongoing construction of a bridge over the Metro North Rail Line in Stratford.

The funds were approved by the State Bond Commission on Friday, July 29, 2022. The funding includes $10.9 million in Special Tax Obligation Bonds through the Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Engineering and Highway Operations Fix-it-First Bridge Program, as well as $14.2 million in Special Tax Obligation Bonds through the Department of Transportation’s Let’s Go! CT program.

“Investing in our infrastructure is vitally important to public safety, quality of life, and economic development,” said Senator Kevin Kelly. “I appreciate the state bond commission’s approval of this important investment in Stratford, and the bipartisan efforts of our delegation and mayor to ensure the needs of Stratford are being heard and answered at the State Capitol.”

“I am grateful for the decision by the State Bond Commission to make this valuable investment in Stratford’s infrastructure,” Representative Ben McGorty said. “These necessary upgrades will be incredibly valuable to the safety and viability of our community.”

“This funding is another key investment in Stratford’s infrastructure and future. I am grateful for Governor Lamont and the bonding commission for their continued commitment to our town,” said Representative Phil Young.

“I am thankful for this funding that will allow our highways and roads to be ready for the 21st century,” said Senator Dennis Bradley. “Building a bridge will allow our residents to be safe while accessing the area around Metro North in Stratford.”

“Stratford remains a priority for Governor Lamont and the DOT when it comes to infrastructure improvements,” said Representative Joe Gresko.  “Stratford public officials’ advocacy has resulted in a full exit 33 interchange on I-95, the Exit 32 interchange upgraded and a round-a-bout coming to Stratford Avenue as well.   This upgraded bridge over the MetroNorth tracks will have sidewalks and breakdown lanes which will improve safety and residents’ quality of life.”

“We are pleased that the State Bond Commission has favorably acted on a critical $25.1 million investment for the replacement of the bridge over the Metro North rail line in Stratford,” said Mayor Laura Hoydick.  “This investment is timely, following closely on the heels of the completion on the Exit 33 Interchange and other transportation infrastructure upgrades that benefit the residents and businesses of Stratford.  My thanks go to Governor Ned Lamont, Stratford’s legislative delegation, and commission members who have ensured this project will be funded.”