Posted on February 23, 2018
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) recently announced that they will be holding a public hearing in New London regarding proposed bus and rail fare increases and service reductions. At these hearings, DOT representatives will provide information and accept public comments about the fare and service proposals.
When: Wednesday, February 28, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Where: New London City Hall Council Chambers
181 State Street, New London
Snow date: Wednesday, March 7, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Rail Services: A rail fare increase would take effect in three phases – 10 percent on July 1, 2018, 5 percent on July 1, 2020, and 5 percent on July 1, 2021, for a cumulative total of 21.28 percent. Rail service reductions on Shore Line East would also take effect on or about July 1, 2018.
Bus Services: A 14.3 percent, or 25-cent, bus fare increase would take effect on July 1, 2018.
Ferry Services: A $1 increase in the car fare for the Chester-Hadlyme ferry.
The DOT feels that these actions are necessary due to an estimated $60 million budget shortfall for transit and rail accounts.
If these changes would affect you, I encourage you to attend the public hearing and provide verbal comment at this hearing. If you are unable to attend, you can provide written comment via mail or e-mail.
You may submit written comments by March 9, 2018 to:
Connecticut Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 317546
Newington, CT 06131-7546
or
The DOT will review and consider all comments received during the public comment period before approving the final service and fare proposal. The implementation of any service and fare changes is contingent on action by the General Assembly.
The hearing facility is fully accessible to persons with disabilities. Free Language assistance may be requested by contacting the DOT at (203) 497-3374 at least 5 business days prior to the hearing. Persons having a hearing and/or speech disability may dial 711 for Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS).