Bureau of Engineering and Construction | Office of Engineering | Division of Bridges
The Consultant Liaison Engineer (CLE) Program is the primary unit for delivering a high volume of bridge engineering projects through strategic partnerships within the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT). Operating under the Bureau of Engineering and Construction - Office of Engineering - Division of Bridges, we manage the integration of internal CTDOT standards with the specialized expertise of private-sector consulting firms.
Our mission is to deliver safe, innovative, and cost-effective multimodal infrastructure for the State of Connecticut through rigorous oversight and collaborative project management.
Program Structure & Oversight Model
The CLE Program is uniquely structured to provide scalable oversight through the use of Consultant Liaison Engineer (CLE) Firms. Similar to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) PMOC framework, this model utilizes specialized technical and administrative support to oversee a wide portfolio of design consultants. While technical execution varies, the CLE and PMOC models share a common philosophy: utilizing a specialized firm as an 'Owner’s Representative' to provide the scalable management and technical oversight necessary to protect the State’s interests.
Local Bridge Program
In addition to State-level oversight, our unit manages the Local Bridge Program. We oversee the activities of municipalities under various Federal and State grant programs, ensuring that bridge improvements on local roads designed by consultants meet all safety, regulatory, and engineering standards.
Visit the Local Bridge Program Website
Requests
for additional information should be addressed to:
Gregory A. Funk, P.E.
Principal Engineer
Secretary: Ellen Kwolek
Gregory A. Funk, P.E.
Principal Engineer
Secretary: Ellen Kwolek
Consultant Liaison Engineer Program Project Managers
| Program Name | Contact Personnel | Phone Numbers |
|---|---|---|
| CLE Bridge Program | Francisco Fadul, P.E. Christopher Patria, P.E. Brianna Ritacco, P.E. |
(860) 594-2078 (860) 594-2958 (860) 594-3205 |
| Local Bridge Program (State and Federal) | Marc Byrnes, P.E. | (860) 594-3489 |
Core Responsibilities
The CLE unit supports State and Municipal projects assigned to the CLE Program through:- Project Oversight: Ensuring that project designs adhere to all applicable CTDOT standards and requirements.
- Technical Liaison: Serving as the central point of contact for technical questions, design direction, and project coordination.
- Performance Monitoring: Assessing consultant deliverables to uphold high standards of engineering practice.
Consultant Resources
| Resource | Description | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Bridge and Roadway Structures Design Manual | The primary technical guide for all CT bridge designs. | View |
| Consultant Design Admin Manual | Administrative workflow for consultant-led projects. | Download |
| Digital Project Development Manual | Preparation, review, and delivery of capital project documents. | Access |
| Consultant Resources | Important information and forms for CTDOT consultants. | Access |