GHG Emissions  -  February 15, 2022

Connecticut DOT Updates Five-Year Plan, Will Lower GHG

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will focus on reducing GHG emission, as part of its interim five-year Capital Plan, covering fiscal years 2022 – 2026 that includes capital investments in roadways and bridges, public transportation, and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.

 CTDOT anticipates utilizing $2.25 billion in total Capital Program funding in federal fiscal year 2022, which began October 1, 2021, including approximately $1.36 billion for roadway and bridge infrastructure, $844 million for bus and rail, and $49 million in support of agency facility repairs and improvements.

 In December, Governor Ned Lamont signed an executive order directing CTDOT and all other state agencies to take actionable steps to reduce carbon emissions. The projects included in the CTDOT interim five-year plan that directly reduce emissions and improve air quality include installing more EV charging stations, utilizing solar power at CTDOT facilities, expanding the Community Connectivity Grant Program to build-out accessible sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike infrastructure, and converting the bus fleet to electric buses.

“Strategic investments in infrastructure, increased access to public transportation, and new initiatives that reduce our carbon emissions are critically important to economic growth in Connecticut and the health and safety of residents. Our interim five-year plan demonstrates our ongoing commitment to safety, equity, and resiliency. As we emerge from the pandemic, we will do so stronger and with the support we need,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Joseph Giulietti in a statement. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is transformational and is providing the state with more than $5 billion in federal infrastructure funding over a five-year period. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.”