Connecticut DOT chief: We need LRT
Written by Douglas John BowenCiting the successful re-introduction of light rail transit to cities nationwide, Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Joseph Marie has called for the Nutmeg State to invest in LRT to keep the state economically competitive.
“Eighteen cities opened light rail systems since 1985, and all but one have doubled or tripled in size,” Marie said. “In Dallas a study showed real estate values improved 25% faster along the LRT than the rest of the region.”
Marie, who has headed the state’s Department of Transportation since last summer, has pushed for a change in transportation focus to include more rail transit. In December the state announced it had hired James Redeker, formerly with New Jersey Transit Corp., to lead DOT’s Bureau of Public Transportation, which observers believe may become a Connecticut rail transit counterpart to NJT.
Connecticut cities, including Stamford and New Haven, have conducted studies evaluating options for LRT or streetcar operations. Stamford’s $141,000 study, being overseen by URS Corp., is ongoing.
