February 11, 2015

Reps. Carpino and Ziobron Deliver Safety Measures for Rt. 66

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HARTFORD –State Representatives Christie Carpino (Cromwell and Portland) & Melissa Ziobron (Colchester, East Haddam, and East Hampton) proposed a bill that would provide more stringent safety measures for route 66. The bill, an act concerning construction of rumble strips on route 66 (H.B. 6341) seeks to construct rumble strips on various parts of route 66.

Carpino and Ziobron also penned a letter to Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner James Redeker last month asking for assistance in conducting a traffic study of this stretch of state roadway for possible safety improvements, including the possibility of rumble strips and additional lighting. On Tuesday, Commissioner Redeker answered their letter and committed to installing centerline rumble strips on Rt. 66 in Portland between Payne Boulevard and the Portland/East Hampton town line, including “The Ledges” as a result of study conducted by DOT.

“This stretch of road has been the site of multiple fatalities and serious accidents over the past year. I hope the installation of rumble strips will help save lives and keep people safe. There is no room for error on this section of Route 66 and while we must all use caution, rumble strips may prevent a head-on collision,” said Rep. Carpino.

Carpino and Ziobron began working with local and state officials in late 2013 to improve the safety of this stretch of road and had many of the signs refreshed in 2014.

“Rumble strips will serve to alert distracted drivers and in many instances may prevent accidents, when only seconds matter. While this dangerous stretch of road is within Portland boundaries, thousands of East Hampton and area residents travel it daily” said Rep. Ziobron.

The Portland Fire Department Chief, Robert Shea, expressed his thanks to Rep. Carpino. “Your request and approval by DOT for the installation of rumble strips as well as additional signage is a critical start in the process of making Rt. 66 in the area known as the ‘ledges’ a safer area of travel,” said Chief Shea.

According to the DOT, the placement of rumble strips between Payne Boulevard and the Portland/East Hampton town line, including the ledges, will take place sometime this year.