Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a key priority for the Connecticut DOT and is vital to revitalizing and strengthening communities. In this episode, we talk with Meriden Mayor Kevin Scarpati to explore the city’s remarkable transformation sparked by the new CTrail Hartford Line station. We’re also joined by Elise Greenberg, Transit Manager at the Connecticut DOT, who discusses how Meriden’s TOD success story serves as a blueprint for other initiatives across the state. (Transcript of Episode)

Guests:

Elise Greenberg, Transit Manager, CTDOT

Mayor Kevin Scarpati, City of Meriden

In this episode, we hear from Dan Baker, CTDOT's Transportation Supervising Planner, who provides updates on the 26 actions from the 2023 Customer Experience Action Plan and introduces three new initiatives to improve bus and rail services. Michael Helta, Maryland Transit's Chief Customer Experience Officer, also joins us and shares how his agency enhances the rider experience. Tune in for valuable insights into public transit innovation and customer-focused improvements. (Transcript of Episode) 

Guests:

Dan Baker, Transportation Supervising Planner, CTDOT

Michael Helta, Chief Customer Experience Officer, Maryland DOT - Maryland Transit Administration 

For More Information:

CT Customer Experience Action Plan: https://www.transitcx.com/

Maryland Transit Administration Customer Experience Dashboard: https://www.mta.maryland.gov/customer-experience-dashboard

This episode explores workforce development's vital role in strengthening regional economies by focusing on people rather than individual employers.

Join us for a discussion with Carita Ducre from the American Public Transportation Association as we explore the connection between public transportation and its contribution to a robust economy and employment. We also examine how workforce development can improve public transit systems through employee training, development opportunities, and more. (Transcript of Episode) 

Guest:

Carita Ducre, Vice President of Workforce Development and Educational Services, American Public Transportation Services (APTA)

Connecticut's annual Stand Down event, happening Sept. 20th, provides essential services for veterans, National Guard members, Reserve members, and their families. This one-stop resource event offers support from state and federal agencies, nonprofits, and veteran organizations. Retired Brigadier General Ron Welch, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, and Blake Roberts, CTDOT Transportation Planner, join us to discuss how Stand Down supports those who have served our nation. (Transcript of Episode) 

Guests:

Brigadier General (ret.) Ron Welch, Commissioner of Connecticut Department of Veteran Affairs

Blake Roberts, CTDOT, Transportation Planner and former Marine

For More Information:

2024 Veteran Stand Down event: https://portal.ct.gov/dva/pages/veterans-stand-down

In this episode, we examine the Connecticut Department of Transportation's final report of the Greater Hartford Mobility Study. This community-driven initiative was developed to reimagine and reconnect neighborhoods for enhanced mobility throughout Greater Hartford. 

Join us as we speak with Kim Lesay, Bureau Chief of Policy and Planning, and Kevin Burnham, Transportation Supervising Engineer at CTDOT, to explore this visionary plan for creating a vibrant, sustainable, and multimodal transportation network. (Transcript of Episode) 

Guests:

Kim Lesay, CTDOT, Bureau Chief of Policy and Planning

Kevin Burnham, CTDOT, Transportation Supervising Engineer

For More Information:

Greater Hartford Mobility Study: https://harfordmobility.com

Guest:

Taiwo Jaiyeoba, National Director of Bus Rapid Transit, Lochner Engineering

Join us in celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Chester-Hadlyme ferry's vessel, the Selden III. We will explore the ferry’s rich history and discuss how it continues to connect communities across the Connecticut River. 

Special guests Captain John F. Kennedy, ferry captain from the CTDOT, and Lynn Wilkinson, President and Communications Chair from Friends of Gillette Castle State Park, will share their insights on the history and ongoing community impact of the Chester-Hadlyme ferry. (Transcript of Episode)

Guests:

Captain John F. Kennedy, Ferry Captain of Selden III, CTDOT

Lynn Wilkinson, President and Communications Chair, Friends of Gillette Castle State Park

For More Information:

Chester-Hadlyme Ferry Website: https://portal.ct.gov/dot/traveler/ferries/chester-hadlyme-ferry

Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry Website: https://portal.ct.gov/dot/traveler/ferries/rocky-hill-ferry

Friends of Gillette Castle State Park: https://www.gillettecastlefriends.org/

Token Transit App Download (for Smart Phones):  https://tokentransit.com/app

Guests:

Russell McDermott, Program Director, CTrides

Liam Cawley, Exhibits Manager, Connecticut Science Center

For More Information:

2024 Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge Website: https://ctrides.com/dlc/

Connecticut Science Center: https://ctsciencecenter.org/

Guests:

Mark Goodale, Transportation Supervising Planner, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Matt Pentz, CEO, Norwalk Transit District

For More Information:

Connecticut DOT Microtransit Webpage - https://portal.ct.gov/DOT/Publictrans/Bureau-of-Public-Transportation/Microtransit-Services

Guests:

Lisa Rivers, Public Transportation Administrator, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Michael Carroll, General Manager, Southeast Area Transit District

Guests:

Gary Pescosolido, Bureau Chief of Finance and Administration, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Sharon Greene, Managing Principal, InfraStrategies

The Connecticut Department of Transportation is planning to acquire 60 state-of-the-art rail cars for the CTrail Hartford Line, Danbury, and Waterbury branches. Tune in for an insider’s look at the future of Connecticut’s vital rail lines and listen to insights on the customization process and the pivotal role these sleek coaches will play in enhancing Connecticut’s rail travel. (Transcript of Episode)

Guests:

Marci Petterson, Transportation Supervising Rail Officer, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Carol Rose, Vice President, STV

Guests:

Rahmane Camara, Transportation Planner 2, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Carmine Fiore,Regional Sales Manager, New Flyer

For More Information:

Connecticut DOT Battery Electric Bus Website - https://portal.ct.gov/DOT/Publictrans/Bureau-of-Public-Transportation/Battery-Electric-Bus-Projects-and-Partners

Guests:

Alicia Leite, Transit Manager, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Doug Holcomb, CEO, Greater Bridgeport Transport

For More Information:

Connecticut DOT Customer Experience Action Plan Website - transitcx.com

Technology has had a transformative impact on public transit. It has changed how we navigate our cities from bus systems, to planning strategies, and fare payment methods. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has recently implemented Token Transit – the app that's changing the game for CTtransit riders with smartphone-based fare payments. Tune in to discover how public transit is more convenient and accessible than ever before! (Transcript of Episode)

Since the recording of this podcast, CTtransit and CTfastrak 31-day passes, ten-ride passes, and all-day passes can now be purchased through Token Transit. 

Guests:

Triscia Chastanet, Transportation Supervising Planner, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Tamara Lima, Chief Customer Officer, Token Transit

Welcome back, listeners! Get ready for an exciting return of "Along the Lines" as we introduce our new host, Benjamin Limmer, Public Transportation Bureau Chief at the CTDOT. In this episode, we'll dive into Ben's inspiring vision for a sustainable, innovative, and collaborative transit future in CT. Join us in giving a warm welcome to Ben and discover the ambitious goals that lie along the lines of Connecticut's transportation systems. (Transcript of Episode)

Guests:

Garret Eucalitto, Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Earlier this year, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) initiated the Customer Experience Action Plan as a way to collect customer feedback and input regarding future programs, policies, and investments to improve public transportation in Connecticut. 

On this episode, guest host Alicia Gonzalez, CTDOT Commissioner Joseph Giulietti, and CTDOT Transportation Supervising Planner Alicia Leite discuss how the Customer Experience Action Plan will be used to benefit the state. (Transcript of Episode)

Please note: Since the taping of this episode, the CX Action Plan team has completed 36 outreach events and has completed the outreach portion of the plan. The team is currently analyzing all of the feedback received from these sessions. 

Guests:

Joseph Giulietti, Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Alicia Leite, Transportation Supervising Planner, Connecticut Department of Transportation 

For More Information: 

Connecticut DOT Customer Experience Action Plan Website - transitcx.com 

As a major transportation hub for Connecticut, New Haven Union Station is the epicenter of rail connections to New York City, Hartford, New London, Springfield, Boston, Washington, D.C., and points in between. It also welcomes travelers with magnificent architecture, ornate ceilings, and unique designs.

On this episode, Rich Andreski and his guests will discuss the historic agreement that will redevelop New Haven Union Station and surrounding neighborhoods, all to better serve riders. (Transcript of Episode)

Guests: 

Doug Hausladen, Executive Director, New Haven Parking Authority

Karla Lindquist, Deputy Director of Transportation, City of New Haven

For More Information:  

New Haven Union Station Partnership Website:  unionstationnewhaven.com/

Summer is right around the corner and the ParkConneCT program has returned for your outdoor adventures! A collaboration with the Connecticut Departments of Transportation (CTDOT) and Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), ParkConneCT will provide safe and reliable transportation to several state parks. Free shuttle connections will be available to access Hammonasset Beach, Silver Sands, Fort Trumbull, Sleeping Giant, Sherwood Island, Osbornedale, and Indian Well State Parks.

On this episode, join special guest host Alicia Gonzalez and her guests to hear how ParkConneCT is providing expanded transportation options to the beautiful state parks of Connecticut this summer. (Transcript of Episode) 

Guests:

Mason Trumble, Deputy Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

Tyler Roth, Transportation Planner, CTDOT Bureau of Public Transportation

For More Information: 

ParkConneCT (CTDEEP page):  https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Park-Connect

Urban renewal left a legacy of broken neighborhoods in Hartford and other cities. The development of Interstates 91 and 84 allowed for faster transportation into the city but also destroyed neighborhoods and cut the city off from the Connecticut River. Today, programs like iQuilt and the Hartford 400 plan are actively working to reverse this trend and reconnect Hartford’s neighborhoods.

Tune in to Episode 31 with Rich Andreski and his guests to hear how a coalition of organizations work together to reclaim land for new neighborhoods, homes, and businesses in Hartford. (Transcript of Episode)

Guests:

Jackie Mandyck, Executive Director, iQuilt Partnership

Randal Davis, Deputy Director of Development Services, City of Hartford

For More Information: 

Greater Hartford Mobility Study - hartfordmobility.com

iQuilt Partnership - theiquiltplan.org

Hartford 400 - hartford400.org

Waterbury is a significant hub for Connecticut’s rail network. The Waterbury Line connects people in Waterbury and the Naugatuck Valley to New Haven, New York and all points in-between. The recently upgraded Waterbury Line boasts many features that improve operations and our customers’ experience. 

Join Rich Andreski and guests from the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments and the CTDOT Office of Rails to hear about the exciting improvements made to the Waterbury Line. (Transcript of Episode) 

Guests:

Rich Dunne: Executive Director of the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments

Angelo Lluberes: Transportation Supervising Rail Officer, CTDOT Office of Rail

For More Information: 

Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments: vcogct.gov

Public transportation connects our communities in many ways, especially for job seekers and those entering the workforce. As Connecticut’s economy continues to develop and companies are looking to fill open positions, it is critical that our transportation systems are up-to-date and are aligned to meet our rider’s needs.

Tune in to this episode to hear Rich Andreski and his guests discuss the importance of frequent and reliable public transportation in order to support the workforce of Connecticut. (Transcript of Episode) 

Guests: 

Kathy Awaad: President & CEO, Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board

Genny Fonseca: Director of Strategic Planning, Northwest Region Workforce Investment Board

Shakira Wade: Career Navigator, Career Resources

For More Information: 

Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board: www.nrwib.org

Connecticut Department of Labor, American Job Center: https://portal.ct.gov/ajc 

For many Connecticut residents, the bus plays a vital role in their day-to-day lives. As technology continues to advance and commute patterns shift, our bus systems must embrace new technology to meet the rider's needs. Electric buses, expanded service hours, real-time signage, and new express bus routes are just a few of the improvements riders have seen. 

On this episode, join host Rich Andreski and his guests from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and CTtransit to hear about the future of CT’s bus systems. (Transcript and Spanish translation of Episode)

Guests: 

Dennis Solensky, Public Transit Administrator, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Josh Rickman, Assistant General Manager of Planning and Marketing, CTtransit

Barry Diggs, Director of Rapid Transit and Zero Emission Program, CTtransit

E-scooters and e-bikes are small, “micromobility” vehicles, powered by electricity or manual power. They save money on gas, and help the environment. Microtransit is an innovative on-demand transit service that can bridge the gap between public transportation trips.

On this episode of Along the Lines, join host Rich Andreski and his guests to learn how both micromobility and microtransit are expanding our travel options and the future of transportation right here in Connecticut. (Transcript of Episode)

Guests: 

Joe Comerford, Executive Director, 9Town Transit and Middletown Transit District

Dave Harvey, Founder and COO, Lynx City

For More Information:  

Lynx City (on-demand electric scooters) - www.lynx.city

9Town Transit - estuarytransit.org

Middletown Transit District - middletownareatransit.org

For those who are blind or have low vision, navigating life is not easy. Even something as simple as taking a bus or train comes with challenges. With the new pilot program Aira, riders can now live stream through their phone’s camera and connect to personal agents who can help them navigate by describing their surroundings.

Tune in to hear more about the CTDOT and the Department of Aging and Disability Services’ (ADS) ongoing effort to create the best public transportation experience for everyone in CT.    (Transcript of Episode) 

Guests:

Jenine Stanley, Director of Customer Communication, Aira

Nyema Pinkney Cranford, Global Continuous Improvement Manager, Collins Aerospace and an Aira user since 2016

For More Information: 

CTDOT and Department of Aging and Disability Services Pilot Program:  ctrides.com/aira-en

We all know green commuting is great for the earth and our state, but most residents don’t think about it as part of their day-to-day life. On this episode, we speak with three guests who use green commuting options on a daily basis, and they have some wonderful and positive stories to tell about how it has impacted their lives.

Sit back, listen, and hear some exciting and inspiring stories about real people using public transportation in Connecticut. We promise you, this episode will be “engaging”!

Tens of thousands of Connecticut’s community college and state university students have traveled with the U-Pass CT program. Students at participating schools received the U-Pass CT card, which provides unlimited use of any public transportation. This program has also eliminated another barrier to higher education - transportation. 

Join host Rich Andreski as he speaks with guests from the Department of Transportation and Capital Community College on the impacts and future growth of the U-Pass CT program. 

Guests: 

Lisa Rivers, Transit Manager, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Randall Ward, Director of Student Activities, Capital Community College 

Cinthia Zuniga, Student at Capital Community College and UPass-CT user

For More Information: 

UPass-CT: CTrides.com/u-pass-ct

CTpass: https://portal.ct.gov/DOT/Publictrans/Bureau-of-Public-Transportation/CTpass

In Connecticut, 38% of all greenhouse gases come from transportation! Our everyday choices of how we travel around the state have a lasting impact on the climate where we live, work and play.

In this episode of Along the Lines, join host Rich Andreski and his guests from the Connecticut Department of Transportation and the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) as they discuss the importance of green commuting options, and how they are dedicated to making our vital public transportation systems more resilient to climate change.

Guests: 

Kim Lesay, Bureau Chief, CTDOT Bureau of Policy and Planning

Emily Pysh, Transportation Supervising Planner, CTDOT Bureau of Policy and Planning - Sustainability and Resiliency Unit

John Truscinski, Director of Resilience Planning, Connecticut Institute of Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) 

For More Information:

Connecticut Institute of Resilience and Climate Adaptation - https://circa.uconn.edu/#

2021 was yet another year of uncertainty and change! But more importantly, it was a year of continued adaptation and ultimate growth. Essential workers such as our bus drivers and train conductors, continued to persevere, vaccines became readily available, and public transportation ridership numbers grew.  

In this episode of Along the Lines host Rich Andreski reflects on the accomplishments from the past year and welcomes the new year with exciting goals and plans. Here’s to a banner year in 2022!

From Mystic Seaport and Aquarium, to Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods casinos and resorts, and the picturesque beaches of the Long Island Sound, there’s no denying that Southeastern Connecticut is filled with historic and world-class tourist attractions that draw millions of visitors from near and far each year.

Tune in to this episode of Along the Lines as host Rich Andreski speaks with guests from the Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments and the City of New London about the importance of public transportation in the area and how it supports the region’s tourism industry and the growing population.

Guests:  

Kate Rattan, Transportation Program Manager, Southeast Connecticut Council of Governments

Felix Reyes, Director of Economic Development and Planning, City of New London  

For More Information:

Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments - seccog.org

Develop New London - developnewlondon.com 

Finding transportation options can seem overwhelming for our fellow citizens who are restricted by age, mobility issues, or cognitive and physical disabilities. However, with the services of Mobility Management as identified in The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, these individuals are provided assistance in navigating their way to accessible transportation.

In this episode, join Rich Andreski as he speaks with his three guests who work at the Kennedy Center in disability services and are passionate about helping the people of Connecticut live their best lives.

Guests: 

John Wardzala, Director of Mobility Services, The Kennedy Center

April Chaplin, Northwest Connecticut Regional Mobility Manager and Ombudswoman, The Kennedy Center

Mary Rosenbauer, ADA Transit Assessment and Training Coordinator, The Kennedy Center. 

For more information: 

Connecticut ADA Paratransit Resource Center - www.ctada.com

The Kennedy Center - https://www.thekennedycenterinc.org/

In 1959, the lively neighborhoods of New Haven, CT were disrupted and separated by the development of the Route 34 expressway. After nearly half a century, they will be reconnected through the Downtown Crossing project. This project will make the city safer, more accessible for pedestrians, and restore the urban street environment bringing economic opportunities to New Haven residents.

In this episode, join Rich Andreski with two guests who oversee the Downtown Crossing project to learn more about it’s positive impact on the city.

Guests: 

Donna Hall, Senior Project Planner, City of New Haven - City Plan Department

Robert Ellis, Capital Projects Coordinator/Project Manager, City of New Haven - City Engineering Department 

For More Information:  

Downtown Crossing New Haven – Route 34 East New Haven

City of New Haven Planning Department - New Haven, CT - City Planning (newhavenct.gov)

City of New Haven Engineering Department - New Haven, CT - Engineering Department (newhavenct.gov)

Guest:

Master Captain John Marshall, Connecticut Department of Transportation (retired since the taping of this episode)

For more information:

CTDOT Ferries Page - Ct.Gov: Ferries

Guests: 

Michael Vigeant, CEO, GreatBlue Research

David Griggs, President and CEO, MetroHartford Alliance

For more information:

MetroHartford Alliance - www.metrohartford.com

Guests: 

Brent Toderian, International Consultant and Founder of Toderian UrbanWorks

Lynn Haig, Director of Planning at the City of Bridgeport

For More Information: 

City of Bridgeport Planning Department - www.bridgeportct.gov/planning

Toderian UrbanWorks - www.toderianurbanworks.com/

The pandemic has changed everything: from where we work to how we travel.This, in turn, has changed transportation patterns in our cities. In the first of a two-part discussion, Rich is joined by two guests and they discuss how travel patterns have changed in Connecticut during the pandemic, including the increase in the use of bike and scooter-share programs.

Guests: 

Brent Toderian, International Consultant and Founder of Toderian UrbanWorks

Lynn Haig, Director of Planning at the City of Bridgeport

For More Information: 

City of Bridgeport Planning Department - www.bridgeportct.gov/planning

Toderian UrbanWorks - www.toderianurbanworks.com/

Guests: 

Emily Schorer, Chief Human Resource Officer, Jackson Laboratory

Rodney Slaughter, Director or Parking and Transportation, Yale New Haven Hospital

Jim Gildea, Chair, Commuter Rail Council and Director of Manufacturing, Bigelow Tea

Jean Florian, CTtransit Supervisor, Stamford Division

There are exciting projects on the horizon! From new rail cars, to faster travel times - the customer experience is sure to get even better. Join the discussion on future rail projects for the second part of this two-part series.

Guests:

Rich Jankovich, Rail Administrator, CTDOT Office of Rails

Jim Gildea, Connecticut Commuter Rail Council 

For More Information: 

CTDOT Office of Rails - Office of Rails (ct.gov)

The Connecticut Commuter Rail Council - www.ctcommuterrailcouncil.org

Guests: 

Rich Jankovich, Rail Administrator, CTDOT Office of Rails

Jim Gildea, Connecticut Commuter Rail Council 

For More Information: 

CTDOT Office of Rails - Office of Rails (ct.gov)

The Connecticut Commuter Rail Council - www.ctcommuterrailcouncil.org

Guests:

Holly Parker, Owner/Founder, Less Road Traveled, LLC

Will Wright, Safe Streets Advocate and member of People Friendly Stamford

For More Information: 

CTDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Information -  Bicycle and Pedestrians NEW (ct.gov)

Less Road Traveled, LLC - Less Road Traveled, LLC

People Friendly Stamford - People Friendly Stamford (peoplestamford.org)

Guests: 

Erin Stewart, Mayor of the City of New Britain 

George Howell, CEO of West Hartford Housing Authority and CEO Trout Brook Realty Advisors

For More Information:

CTfastrak - CTfastrak | CTtransit - Connecticut DOT-owned bus service

City of New Britain - City of New Britain - Home (newbritainct.gov)

Guests:

Ryan Hanrahan, Chief Meteorologist at NBC Connecticut

Katie Dykes, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection 

For More Information:  

CTDEEP Climate Change Information - Climate Change (ct.gov)

In this episode, Rich is joined by journalist and long0time rail commuter advocate, Jim Cameron. Their lively discussion includes the future of rail transportation in Connecticut, behind-the-scenes operator relationships, and how to fund our rail infrastructure moving forward.

Guest:

Jim Cameron, Journalist and Rail Advocate

For More Information:

The Connecticut Commuter Rail Council - www.ctcommuterrailcouncil.org

Guest:

Jack Swanberg, author and retired Lead Trainmaster for the New Haven Line

For More Information: 

J. W. Swanberg Collection, University of Connecticut Library - Collection: J. W. Swanberg Papers | UConn Archives & Special Collections ArchivesSpace

Guests:

Chris Edge, Director of Economic Development, Town of Berlin

Tony Valenti, Partner, Newport Realty Group 

For More Information:

Town of Berlin Economic Development - Economic Development / Berlin, CT (berlinct.gov)

Guests:

Mark Ojakian, President, Connecticut State University system (retired since podcast recording) 

Sean Ghio, Policy Director, Partnership for Strong Communities

For More Information: 

Connecticut State Colleges and Universities - www.ct.edu

Partnership for Strong Communities - www.pschousing.org

Guests: 

Kevin Burns, Operation Lifesaver Program, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Detective Robert Hanson, Criminal Investigation Unit, Amtrak

For More Information:  

CTDOT Operation Lifesaver Program - Connecticut Operation Lifesaver (oli.org)

National Operation Lifesaver Program - Home | Operation Lifesaver (oli.org)

Stay Off the Tracks - www.stayoffthetracks.org

Guests: 

Tiffany Garcia, Associate Title VI Officer, Connecticut Department of Transportation 

Doug Holcomb, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Bridgeport Transit

For More Information:

CTDOT Title VI Program - Title VI Page (ct.gov)

Greater Bridgeport Transit - www.gogbt.com

Guests:

Nefari Hassan - frequent public transportation rider

Kai Addae - frequent public transportation rider

Guests:

Garrett Eucalitto, Deputy Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Transportation

Melissa Kaplan-Macey, Vice-President, State Programs and Connecticut Director for Regional Plan Association

For More Information:

Regional Plan Association - https://rpa.org