Amy Romano

Shelton and Connecticut officials addressing traffic jams caused by bridge work

<p><em>As published in the Shelton Herald by Brian Gioele.</em></p> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>SHELTON — What has become a major traffic issue in downtown <a class="" href="https://www.ctinsider.com/news/shelton/" data-link="native">Shelton</a> is now a priority for the Connecticut Department of Transportation and local law enforcement.</p> </div> <div id="subscriberVideo" class="mb32 tac ox-hidden" data-eid="item-100653"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="x1px y1px vh abs" src="https://cdn-channels-pixel.ex.co/events/0012000001fxZm9AAE?integrationType=DEFAULT&amp;template=design%2Farticle%2Fplatypus_two_column.tpl" alt="" width="1" height="1" aria-hidden="true" />State Sen. Jason Perillo, state Reps. Amy Romano and Ben McGorty, Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments members, Aldermen Eric McPherson and Ben Perry and Derby police met with CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto on Sunday at Common Grounds in the heart of downtown to address traffic congestion stemming from <a class="" href="https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Report-More-than-300-bridges-in-Connecticut-13244176.php" data-link="native">emergency repairs on the Commodore Hull Bridge</a>.</div> <div class="pt16 sy16 bb bt b-gray300 mb32"> <div class=""></div> </div> <div class="tac jcc aic x100 mxa py16 bt bb b-gray300 mb40 sm:mx0 sm:f"> <div class="" data-block-type="text">While CTDOT officials stressed that the bridge is safe, repair work was necessary to eliminate any weight restrictions.</div> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>That work has required the closure of Exit 12A Route 8 northbound on-ramp and Exit 12B Route 8 southbound on-ramp, but CTDOT Communications Director Josh Morgan said the department expects both ramps and all Route 8 travel lanes to open this weekend.</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>“The Commodore Hull Bridge remains safe for the traveling public,” Morgan said. “If there was ever a concern for public safety, we would shut the bridge down completely. We remind the public to slow down, move over, and stay alert in this active work zone.”</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>Following the meeting, CTDOT announced several initial steps to mitigate the traffic crisis. The agency will fund the deployment of local police officers to manage surface street traffic during peak travel times.</p> </div> <div class="md:pt16 md:sy16 md:bb md:bt b-gray300 mb32"> <div class="vh y0 mb0 md:vv md:y100 md:mb16"> <p class="uiTextSmall f aic jcc">Additionally, CTDOT will enhance signage throughout the affected area to better direct drivers and help reduce congestion.</p> </div> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>Perillo thanked CTDOT for being a partner in addressing traffic, saying “their agreement to cover the costs of local police shows their responsiveness.”</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>Mayor Mark Lauretti said he has received regular updates from CTDOT since word about the deteriorating bridge broke last week, adding he was pleased to hear work maybe completed by the weekend since he was originally told it could take upwards of several weeks. He also confirmed Shelton Police on Monday had officers working traffic duty downtown to facilitate the flow of traffic.</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>&#8220;This is a perfect example of what can happen when local leaders come together and demand results,” said Perillo. “We’ve been pushing hard to bring this issue to the state’s attention, and today’s meeting shows that effort is paying off.”</p> </div> <div class="pt16 sy16 bb bt b-gray300 mb32"> <div class=""> <p class="uiTextSmall f aic jcc">Just weeks ago, the local impact of these bridge repairs had received minimal public attention. Now, thanks to persistent advocacy from local leaders, CTDOT has acknowledged the situation as a significant concern requiring immediate action.</p> </div> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>“While this won’t be resolved overnight, teaming up with CTDOT and local law enforcement is a critical first step,” Perillo added. “We’re committed to keeping this issue front and center until meaningful improvements are made. The road to a safer, more effective solution is still ahead, but together, we’ll keep pushing until we reach it.”</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>Romano said the Shelton delegation appreciated the support and patience from residents during the construction that will assist with rapid road and traffic improvements in the coming weeks.</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>“While there’s still work to be done, I believe we will continue making progress together,” McGorty said. “I want to thank CTDOT’s partnership in tackling these issues directly and their understanding of how this impacts our residents.”</p> </div> <div class="pt16 sy16 bb bt b-gray300 mb32"> <div class=""></div> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>Morgan said deterioration on the gusset plates on Commodore Hull Bridge was discovered during a special inspection in preparation for a future project. The plates connect the truss members together to support the weight of the overall bridge structure and traffic load on the bridge.</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>Due to the additional deterioration, a 32-ton weight restriction for all vehicles was implemented. CTDOT signed an emergency declaration that allows the department to move forward with permanent repairs more quickly.</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>The work happening this week involves milling off pavement to facilitate future repairs to the bridge. As this continues, to keep workers and the public safe and accelerate the work, Morgan said Exit 12A Route 8 northbound on-ramp and Exit 12B Route 8 southbound on-ramp are closed.</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>“We are hopeful that both ramps and all travel lanes on Route 8 will reopen by this coming weekend,” Morgan said. “Crews can then turn their focus to the future repairs needed underneath the bridge.”</p> </div> <div class="pt16 sy16 bb bt b-gray300 mb32"> <div class=""> <p class="uiTextSmall f aic jcc"> Morgan said CTDOT is funding additional officers near the highway ramps and busy intersections to help with traffic congestion.</p> </div> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>“More police presence will help keep traffic flowing at crucial bottlenecks,” Morgan said. “We are also adding more signage along the corridor to divert traffic away from the area.”</p> </div> <div class="r1udwkp5 d1uy5mhj articleBody mb32" data-block-type="text" data-dropcap="false"> <p>CTDOT is asking the public to be patient, follow the detours and utilize their GPS. The department is sharing ramp and lane closures directly with GPS providers, so these platforms will have the latest information. The public can also visit <a class="" href="https://ctrides.com/" data-link="native">CTrides.com</a> to view all public transportation options available.</p> </div>

VIDEO: Why I voted “NO” on the State Budget

<div class="xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs x126k92a"> <div dir="auto">Yesterday, I joined fellow first-time lawmaker <span class="html-span xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x1hl2dhg x16tdsg8 x1vvkbs"><span class="xt0psk2"><span class="xjp7ctv">State Representative Joe Canino &#8211; Torrington</span></span></span> to discuss some important parts of the state budget that passed on a party-line vote last night.</div> <div dir="auto"></div> </div> <div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div dir="auto">This budget&#8230;</div> <div dir="auto">&#8211; OVERSPENDS Money we Don&#8217;t Have</div> <div dir="auto">&#8211; UNDERFUNDS Special Education &amp; Medicaid</div> <div dir="auto">&#8211; SUPPORTS Illegal Immigrant Healthcare</div> <div dir="auto">&#8211; INCREASES Taxpayer Spending by $450 Million</div> <div dir="auto">&#8211; $2 BILLION More in Taxes over two years</div> </div> <div dir="auto"></div> <div dir="auto"><em><strong>See more in the video below:</strong></em><iframe loading="lazy" title="Why we voted 'NO' on the CT State Budget: Rep. Joe Canino &amp; Rep. Amy Romano" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EZ9jWGcEIvw" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div>

Supporting Special Ed Funding

<div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div dir="auto">Recently, I voted for a bill that supports our special education needs in Shelton. In my comments, I raised concerns with certain legislative mechanisms and how relying on grant funding for new jobs and programs could leave us additional costs down the road, however I believe that overall, this is a step in the right direction.</div> </div> <div dir="auto"></div> <div dir="auto">Here&#8217;s my comments: &#8220;Shelton has over $9 million in Special Education costs every year, and this bill supports our needs. Although I have concerns on how we would rely on temporary grant funding for new jobs, I believe that it is a step in the right direction.&#8221;</div> <div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div dir="auto"></div> <div dir="auto">Not all laws are perfect, but some do have critical parts that address the needs of our community. I look forward to keeping the conversation going on this bill to ensure we can provide long-term support for our special education.</div> </div>

$1,000,000 Grant for Shelton Recreation

<p><strong>HARTFORD, CT – State Senator Jason Perillo (R-Shelton), State Representative Amy Romano (R-Shelton), and State Representative Ben McGorty (R-Shelton)</strong> today applauded the approval of a $1,000,000 <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fportal.ct.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnews%2Fpress-releases%2F2025%2F05-2025%2Fgovernor-lamont-releases-30-million-for-infrastructure-improvements-in-46-small-towns%3Flanguage%3Den_US&amp;data=05%7C02%7CJoseph.Coss%40cga.ct.gov%7C34bd7e163bde4414d79f08dd9ee53aef%7C3ec76714b1b4418a883232c46ec84226%7C0%7C0%7C638841429575475817%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=qzWfylvWiWeYmIlkp%2BXalDx7%2FaZ8lPNf9ytV4diwEHY%3D&amp;reserved=0">Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grant</a> to support Public Facility and Recreational Enhancements for the town of Shelton.</p> <p>This state funding will be combined with a $200,000 municipal match bringing the total investment in the project to $1,200,000. This investment will be put towards:</p> <ul> <li>Transformation of the Shelton Community Center</li> <li>Modern skate park</li> <li>Splash pad</li> <li>Children’s playground</li> <li>Upgraded locker rooms</li> <li>Refurbished tennis courts</li> <li>New pickleball courts at NIKE Site</li> <li>Improvements at Veterans Memorial Park and the Housatonic Riverwalk</li> </ul> <p>&#8220;Full credit goes to the City Hall staff who prepared this successful grant application,&#8221; said <strong>Sen. Perillo</strong>. &#8220;It represents a major step forward in the City’s effort to providing safe and modern recreational facilities for our community. We are thrilled that this grant will bring these improvements to life and offer new opportunities for residents of all ages to stay active and enjoy Shelton’s natural beauty.”</p> <p><strong>Rep. Romano</strong> said, “This is more than a grant; it’s an investment that guarantees community-oriented activities for years to come. As a mom, I know how important access to safe recreation is for our current and prospective families. I am grateful for the work of our local officials in securing this funding that continues to make Shelton an attractive place for families to live and thrive.”</p> <p><strong>Rep. McGorty</strong> said, &#8220;This is a tremendous win for the people of Shelton. Investments like this are about more than just new facilities — they&#8217;re about building community. With this grant, we’re making it easier for families to enjoy quality time together, for kids to play and grow in a safe environment, and for residents of all ages to stay active and connected. I’m proud to support projects like these that make Shelton an even better place to live, work, and raise a family. I also want to thank the team at City Hall for their hard work in securing this grant and bringing real results to our community.”</p> <p>The town applied for the STEAP grant to continue improving Shelton to best serve its residents. The STEAP program is designed to assist small towns with economic development, community conservation, and public infrastructure improvements that enhance residents&#8217; quality of life.</p>

ON AIR: “Melissa in the Morning” Diner Tour in Shelton

<div class="xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs x126k92a"> <div dir="auto">Did you catch us on-air this morning??</div> <div dir="auto"></div> </div> <div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div dir="auto">Senator <span class="html-span xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x1hl2dhg x16tdsg8 x1vvkbs"><span class="xt0psk2"><span class="xjp7ctv">Jason Perillo</span></span></span>, <span class="html-span xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x1hl2dhg x16tdsg8 x1vvkbs"><span class="xt0psk2"><span class="xjp7ctv">State Representative Ben McGorty 122nd District</span></span></span>, and I had a great time at the Plaza Diner with <span class="html-span xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x1hl2dhg x16tdsg8 x1vvkbs"><span class="xt0psk2"><span class="xjp7ctv">WICC600</span></span></span>&#8216;s Melissa in the Morning! Thanks for having us on your diner tour and for always showing Shelton love.</div> <div dir="auto"></div> </div> <div class="x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div dir="auto">From the recent intrusive housing bill, to what to expect in the state budget, check out our conversation on this &amp; more <a href="https://audioboom.com/posts/8727577-melissa-in-the-morning-the-political-three-amigos"><strong>HERE</strong></a>.</div> </div>