Southeastern Connecticut Delegation Serious About Transportation Needs
Three freshman state lawmakers from Southeastern Connecticut joined Governor Malloy on Wednesday over-looking the Thames River to highlight the need for more investment in all modes of transportation along the I-95 corridor in the shoreline region.
“People in the southeast corridor of the state should have reliable and safe transportation systems. The fact that the Governor chose to highlight I-95 in our area is important. It is a major pathway for commerce in this region,” said Senator Paul Formica.
State Senator Formica is the veteran lawmaker in the group of freshmen, recently resigning as the first selectman of East Lyme to serve as the 20th district’s state senator in Hartford.
“I have been working with the state department of Transportation for years as a first selectman to revamp exit 74 and to widen the Niantic River Bridge. Today’s event is an extension of those conversations,” added Formica.
Newly elected State Representative Devin Carney also reiterated the need to prioritize the upkeep of roads, bridges, rail and ports.
“Improving our transportation infrastructure is very important to folks of Southeastern Connecticut. I applaud Governor Malloy for acknowledging that there needs to be upgrades made to I-95 at this end of the state. It’s a key area for commuters and tourists, so it’s crucial that traffic can move steadily and safely. As a member of the Transportation Committee, I will continue to be an advocate for government transparency and a proponent of public safety,” said Rep. Carney.
As one of the two youngest elected lawmakers in the country, Representative Aundre` Bumgardner brings a new perspective to the ongoing conversation of how to keep the state’s transportation infrastructure strong for future generations.
“Connecticut needs a comprehensive transportation plan that includes roads, bridges, rail, our ports and waterways and pedestrian-friendly ways to get around,” Rep. Bumgardner said. “I’m encouraged the Governor is making sure Southeastern Connecticut isn’t being left out but this is just the start. The Governor and the legislature must ensure any funding put into transportation projects is used specifically for transportation and protected from being raided for other purposes.”
All agree protecting the Special Transportation Fund may require new language for a “lock box” on funds collected through the gas tax, department of motor vehicle fees, as well as commuter train and bus tickets.
The event was held at the State DEEP Boat Launch on the New London side of the Thames River, just below the Gold Star Bridge. At 5,925 feet, the Gold Star is the longest bridge in Connecticut. The northbound bridge, which originally carried I-95 traffic in both directions, opened in 1943. A new bridge for southbound traffic opened in 1973.
Senator Formica represents the 20th district towns of Old Saybrook, Old Lyme, East Lyme, Waterford, New London, Montville, Bozrah and Salem.
Representative Carney represents the 23rd district towns of Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook and Westbrook.
Representative Bumgardner represents the 41st General Assembly District representing residents in Groton and New London.