CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NEWS RELEASE 2800 BERLIN TURNPIKE P.O. BOX 317546 NEWINGTON CONNECTICUT, 06131-7546
FOR RELEASE: December 18, 2007	FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:    OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS    TELEPHONE: (860) 594-3062    Fax: (860) 594-3066    Web site:www.ct.gov/dot

New Route 15 North Exit 34 Ramp Scheduled to Open

Route 104, Long Ridge Road, in Stamford, CT

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Newington, Connecticut – The Connecticut Department of Transportation announced today that the new Exit 34 off ramp for Route 15 northbound on the Merritt Parkway will open to traffic on Wednesday afternoon, December 19, 2007, weather permitting.

Construction activities will occur along Route 15 northbound from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the removal of the temporary precast barrier curb and the installation of new pavement markings.   Once the pavement markings are completed, the new off ramp will be opened and the existing ramp will be closed.

The project was awarded to Dayton Construction Company Inc. on June 5, 2006, at a cost of $4.9 million.  The opening of the new ramp is a significant step toward completion of a project that will provide much needed improvements at the Merritt Parkway interchange.  The project is anticipated to be completed in the summer of 2008.

The project replaces the current combination on and off ramp for Route 104 with a newly constructed off ramp that aligns with Wire Mill Road.  The existing ramp has been converted to an exclusive northbound on ramp for southbound Route 104 traffic.   The project also includes roadway widening and resurfacing on Route 104, drainage, new traffic signals and signing as well as other safety and landscaping improvements.

Lieutenant Governor Michael Fedele, who resides in the area, said that the opening of the new ramp and other improvements along Route 104 are welcome changes, adding, “Long Ridge Road is a major artery used by not only area residents but also commuters that work in and around the Stamford area. This new ramp will also serve to enhance and promote the safety of the traveling public. In addition, reducing the stress and frustration for motorists traveling through the area is another big plus that this project has provided.”

Don't Zone Out - Drive Safe - Drive Smart