Train service on the Waterbury Branch Line resumed Oct. 26, 2020, announced the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT).
The restoration of rail service follows a six-month suspension and bussing of the service to allow rail line construction projects to be accelerated.
During the suspension, CTDOT and Metropolitan Transportation Authority Metro-North Railroad accelerated components of a $116-million dollar capital improvement project to enhance service reliability and enable increased Waterbury Line rail service in the future. Work on the line includes signal and communications upgrades, track improvements, rail siding installation (to allow trains to pass) and bridge repairs to three major rail bridges in Derby, Seymour and Naugatuck. The remaining work will be completed in 2021.
“Waterbury Branch improvements, not only to support and improve current operations but also future enhancements in the service, have been long overdue,” Transportation Commissioner Joseph Giulietti said. “I extend my appreciation to our customers who patiently tolerated the inconveniences, while at the same time our crews were able to accomplish so much work in such a short period.”
All rail customers are encouraged to pre-purchase their rail tickets before boarding. Customers may use the MTA eTix smartphone application or ticket vending machines at New Haven Line stations.
