NHHS - Project Scope

The Connecticut Department of Transportation, in coordination with other federal and state agencies, initiated an environmental assessment of the proposed improvements for the New Haven-Harford-Springfield Commuter Rail service.

The study effort will be completed in the spring of 2010 and will address the social, economic, and environmental impacts of the start-up service as proposed in the June 2005 Implementation Plan. The Full-Build Alternative was studied and determined to not be cost effective. The Start-Up service would build on the existing Amtrak service in the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield corridor and would consist of:

Bi-directional service, New Haven – Springfield, Monday through Friday at 30 minute peak period schedule.
Replacing about 40 miles of double track, removed during the 1990’s; so the entire Springfield Line would be double tracked.
Adding North Haven, Newington and Enfield stations.
Enhancing the Windsor Locks station with a bus connection with Bradley International Airport.
Modifying local bus services to connect with passenger stations
High-level platforms and grade-separated passenger facilities at all stations.
Integrating rail freight.

In addition to these elements, another improvement that may be considered for future enhanced service on the line as demand is demonstrated is constructing an additional station in the Wharton Brook area in North Haven at the former Pratt & Whitney property as development takes place.

Timeline

The project began in early 2008 and is scheduled for completion in early 2010

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