CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

NEWS RELEASE

2800 BERLIN TURNPIKE P.O. BOX 317546
NEWINGTON CONNECTICUT, 06131-7546

FOR RELEASE: October 10, 2008
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
   OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
   TELEPHONE: (860) 594-3062
   Fax: (860) 594-3066
   Web site:
www.ct.gov/dot

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (ConnDOT) today announced the opening of a new restroom facility at the Cannondale Train Station.  The new stand-alone building was constructed as an upgrade to the Cannondale Station and is part of the state’s effort to improve and enhance amenities at New Haven Line stations. 

“The opening of this facility at the Cannondale station represents another example of the state’s commitment to improve rail service for our customers.  The project was completed under the estimated budget and finished within a year.  This new facility not only improved customer amenities at Cannondale, but the Department worked closely with community leaders to integrate the outside design to complement the station’s historic architecture,” said Transportation Commissioner Joseph F. Marie.

The existing train station was also improved in this project with the addition of running water from a newly drilled well, as well as connection to a new septic system.  Minor repairs and improvements were also performed around the area including curbing, pavement and grading work.  The final cost for the design and construction of this project is estimated at $450,000, below the original estimated of $700,000.  The project was completed in under a year by Gennarini Construction Company, Inc. of Bridgeport.

“Over the course of this past year, the state has embarked on several projects, big and small, to enhance and improve rail service on all levels.  This is only the beginning. Over the next several years, the Department will be working to improve and enhance rail service, rail facilities and customer amenities.  Public transportation is an important economic and quality of life component for our state, and the Department will continue to improve the rail service and rail facilities whenever possible,” said Commissioner Marie.