Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto today initiated construction on TIME-1, a significant $1.6 billion infrastructure project designed to modernize the New Haven Line and deliver faster, more frequent, and more reliable rail service between New Haven and New York City.
TIME-1 represents the largest component to date of the Lamont administration’s comprehensive TIME FOR CT initiative, a multi-year effort to rebuild and expand Connecticut’s rail network. Upon its completion in 2035, the project will allow trains to reach speeds of up to 90 miles per hour in designated sections, an increase from the current 70 mph, and upgrade track standards to Federal Railroad Administration’s Track Class 6.
“The New Haven Line connects thousands of people to jobs, businesses, and destinations across Connecticut and the region every day,” Governor Lamont said. He added that shaving minutes off commute times will significantly impact the economic future of towns along the line, attracting new families and investment.
Commissioner Eucalitto emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating, “We are building the rail system Connecticut needs for the future—one that gets people where they are going faster, delivers more reliable service, and provides modern, accessible stations.” He acknowledged the partnership between state, federal, and local entities, along with the skilled crews.
Phase one of TIME-1, a $340.7 million endeavor, is currently underway on a three-mile section between Bridgeport and Stratford. This phase involves installing new catenary structures, adding turnouts, replacing the Longbrook Avenue Bridge, and upgrading track and signal infrastructure, supporting approximately 125 jobs. Funding for this phase includes $184 million from the Federal Railroad Administration, $145.5 million from the State of Connecticut, and $11.2 million from Amtrak.
Future phases include targeted improvements at Stratford Station and additional corridor upgrades, with phase two expected to begin in 2030 and phase three in 2031, collectively costing an anticipated $1.3 billion. These investments are projected to reduce overall travel times between New Haven and New York by approximately 25 minutes, enhancing reliability for Metro-North Railroad, Amtrak, and freight operators, and benefiting the approximately 100,000 daily New Haven Line passengers.