CTDOT Press Releases
03/15/2023
Upcoming Track Improvements on the Metro-North New Canaan Branch Line
CTDOT alerts riders that work will require substitute busing for all New Canaan Branch Line customers this summer
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is alerting riders that due to track improvements on the New Canaan Branch Line this summer, substitute bus service will replace all train service. This necessary work is part of the tie replacement and track upgrades program. When completed, an existing speed restriction in the Stamford area will be eliminated. Train speeds through this section will increase from 30 miles per hour to 50 miles per hour. The track improvements, and bus substitution, will begin Tuesday, May 30, 2023, and is estimated to run through August.
“CTDOT has continued to move forward with projects that modernize and improve our state rail systems to bolster efficiency, safety, and overall customer experience,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “We know the importance of this line and have plans to ensure passengers can reach their destination. We worked with Metro-North to ensure this outage begins after Memorial Day and concludes prior to Labor Day, coinciding with the time commuters and their families are more likely to have summer vacations planned. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our customers as we enter the final phases of work activity.”
The bus schedule is currently being finalized and will be shared in the weeks ahead.
This year, the construction program includes the New Canaan Branch Line’s replacement of approximately 8,000 ties with a Pandrol fastening system, 1,600 feet of rail, insulated rail joints, and bridge timbers over the Noroton River Bridge; remediation of mud spots at several locations; reinstatement of drainage along portions of the branch where needed; reinstallation new rail anchors as needed; and surfacing the entire branch line.
The New Haven Line Track 5 work to lift the speed restriction includes the replacement of 830 ties, 1,200 feet of rail and bridge timbers over the Canal Street Bridge, Elm Street Bridge, and East Main Street Bridge; surfacing the entire stretch; and maintenance of the railway turnout by Elm Street.
Customers will be able to access the complete substitute bus schedule at mta.info/mnr. Customers are encouraged to check the schedules and status of service before they travel.
All rail customers are encouraged to pre-purchase their rail tickets before boarding. Customers may use the MTA eTix app or ticket vending machines conveniently located at most New Haven Line stations. For information on how to use the MTA eTix app, visit mta.info/mta-etix.
While passengers are no longer required to wear masks on board trains or in stations, masks are welcome and remain an important preventive measure against COVID-19. Anyone needing or choosing to wear one is encouraged to do so.
Channels for Service Updates
new.MTA.info–The “Service Status” box at new.MTA.info is always the definitive source for the latest status for each line.
Email and text message service updates – Customers are urged to sign up to receive alerts, tailored by specific line and time of day, by visiting MyMTAAlerts.com.
Twitter – Twitter users can follow @MetroNorth to receive dynamic service updates and customer service support.
TrainTime app– Metro-North unveiled major upgrades to its TrainTime app to keep customers updated by the second. The upgraded app includes real-time train location updated every three seconds and is available in six languages.
WhatsApp - Metro-North recently started using WhatsApp to expand the number of customer service channels available to riders, and it is beneficial for non-native English speakers. Customers can receive customer service support in their native language through the help of Google Translate.
Facebook – Facebook users can message Metro-North to speak with a customer service representative on its Facebook page.
These communication channels can be accessed while at home or on the go. For customers located at stations, the MTA will post the latest service updates on digital signs at station platforms and make audio announcements over public address systems and onboard announcements made by train crews.
For those who prefer to contact the MTA by telephone, information is available for Connecticut customers by calling (877) 690-5114. The New York State Travel Information Line is 511. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing can use their preferred service provider for the free 711 relay to reach the MTA at 511.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
860-594-3062
CTDOTMedia@ct.gov
Twitter: @CTDOTOfficial
Facebook: Connecticut Department of Transportation
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