$4M Stabilization Project Proposed for Metro-North’s Danbury Branch
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Danbury Branch Slope and Track Stabilization Draft Project plans
Screenshot courtesy of CT Gov
BETHEL, Conn. – The track and slope stabilization project has been proposed for the Bethel and Wilton sections of the Danbury Branch.
According to a report in newstimes, DOT Project Manager Gregory Funk said, “The purpose of the project is to stabilize the embankment slopes along the Metro-North Railroad Danbury Branch by performing track profile modifications and track drainage improvements, including proposed cross-culverts.” The $4 million cost is expected to be funded through 80% federal sources and 20% state sources.
A rendering shows work on a section along Sympaug Pond in Bethel and a section of track in Wilton. Below is a draft of plans for the project, courtesy of CTGov:
Now, the nearby community will be able to provide comments and ask questions at a virtual public information meeting held by the state Department of Transportation. The meeting will be held on August 29th at 6 p.m. Feedback from this meeting will be used when designing the project. Construction is not expected to start until 2026.
The meeting will begin with a presentation from the DOT followed by a question-and-answer session. According to the report, the virtual meeting will take place via Zoom, but it will also be live-streamed on the CTDOT’s YouTube channel. A recording will be posted afterward on CTDOT’s Public Information Meetings playlist on YouTube.
Previously, RT&S reported on August 20th on the damage caused by flooding on both the Danbury and Waterbury branches. Crews worked on Aug. 19th to restore service before the 5:07 p.m. train to Danbury from Grand Central.
