(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto today announced that the Connecticut Department of Transportation has begun construction on the Dutch Point Viaduct rehabilitation project on Interstate 91 southbound in Hartford.
The Dutch Point Viaduct is the 61-year-old, 1,800-foot elevated bridge structure on I-91 southbound between the area of the Connecticut Convention Center and the Colt Armory. It includes ramps to and from the Whitehead Highway, connecting I-91 to downtown Hartford.
The purpose of the project is to upgrade the structural elements of the bridge to current safety standards. Improvements include the replacement of the viaduct’s bridge deck, drainage system, and installation of new barrier walls and highways lights, among other structural enhancements. Upon completion in fall 2026, the reconstruction project will improve safety for motorists, increase the viaduct’s load-carrying capacity, and extend the viaduct’s service life until it is replaced as part of the Greater Hartford Mobility Program.
The $91.85 million project is funded by a mix of 90% federal funds and 10% state funds. The funds are sourced from various federal programs, including those dedicated to highway and bridge maintenance and improvement.
“The Dutch Point Viaduct is a vital artery for thousands of commuters and visitors traveling through the Hartford region every day,” Governor Lamont said. “Modernizing this aging bridge is a crucial investment to ensure the safety and reliability of this key stretch of highway. I appreciate the hardworking Connecticut Department of Transportation crews and contractors for their dedication to completing these upgrades.”
“Like many of Connecticut’s aging bridges, the I-91 viaduct was built for a different time and requires significant upgrades to the bridge deck to extend its service life,” Commissioner Eucalitto said. “We urge motorists to slow down and move over when they see our crews working on the highway or in the roadway shoulder on this important project. Thanks to Governor Lamont and our federal, state, and local partners, we are upgrading this critical infrastructure while ensuring minimal disruption to commuters and businesses downtown.”
“This blockbuster $82 million federal grant will positively impact safety and quality of life for all Connecticut,” Senator Richard Blumenthal said. “This project is in our capital city but is key to transportation interests statewide. I’m proud to continue to fight for federal investments that improve aging infrastructure and make our roadways safer.”
“I am glad to see federal funding coming to Hartford to repair and modernize the I-91 Dutch Point Viaduct and improve safety along this busy stretch of highway,” Congressman John Larson (CT-01) said. “I want to thank Governor Lamont and our state and local partners for their leadership on this project. These are necessary upgrades that will put our construction industry to work while plans for long-term projects that will correct the planning mistakes of the past and improve lives in the Hartford region continue to develop.”
One lane of I-91 southbound in the area will be closed for approximately 18 months while work on the project is underway. Temporary nighttime lane closures between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. and daytime shoulder closures between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. will occur throughout the duration of the construction period. Additionally, the State Street on-ramp to I-91 southbound will be closed during all three stages of the project.
Motorists should anticipate potential delays during these times but can rely on traffic control measures and signage to guide them through the work zone.
For detailed information on this project and to subscribe to construction updates via email, visit portal.ct.gov/dutchpointviaduct.