Amtrak reaches Niantic Bridge channel-closure agreement

In-Channel Work Press Release Discussions between Amtrak, East Lyme Selectman Paul Formica, the U.S. Coast Guard and local boaters and marine businesses have resulted in an agreement that balances the use of the Niantic River channel by the marine community and the need to keep the bridge-replacement project moving forward and on schedule.

The agreement, officially
announced by the U.S. Coast Guard, permits channel closures on Monday and
Tuesday nights from 10 p.m. to 4:30 a.m., through October 15, the traditional
end of the summer boating season. During the nighttime closures, Amtrak will be
able to perform a number of activities, including construction of the two
in-river piers.

"The channel closure
schedule signifies the continued cooperation and ongoing commitment by Amtrak
to have an open communication process as part of this vital and necessary
project," said Jim Richter, deputy chief engineer, structures, Amtrak. "We
appreciate the efforts of Selectman Formica in helping reach an agreement that
all parties can support."

"This schedule allows our
fishing and recreational boating community necessary access to the channel
while at the same time moving this very important project forward," said East
Lyme First Selectman, Paul Formica. I appreciate Amtrak and the Coast Guard
soliciting input from both the boating community and the Town in determining
these closures."

Amtrak will also continue
to communicate all project specific channel closure information on Amtrak.com and
is addressing concerns and questions of area residents and the boating
community through the development of a toll-free hotline (800-288-1310) and e-mail
address ([email protected]).

The new bridge will
improve reliability, reduce the chance for operational failure and help
minimize train and river traffic delays. The project is scheduled for
completion in 2013. The bridge currently serves up to 38 Amtrak passenger
trains and two freight trains every day and typically opens for marine traffic
about 4,000 times each year.