Connecticut Senate votes to restore Shoreline East Rail line service by 2025

The Transportation Committee of the Connecticut State Legislature convened on March 12, 2025, to discuss several key legislative items aimed at enhancing transportation services across the state. The meeting began with a focus on Senate Bill 714, which proposes the restoration of service on the Shoreline East rail line to pre-pandemic levels by July 1, 2025.

Senator Cohen, a strong advocate for the Shoreline East line, emphasized the importance of restoring service to boost ridership and improve connectivity for communities served by the line. He highlighted previous efforts, including a $5 million funding infusion secured last session, which had already shown positive results in ridership. Cohen noted the environmental and economic benefits of rail travel, urging his colleagues to support the bill.

Senator Wong echoed Cohen's sentiments, stressing the need for a collaborative approach to support mass transit and rail services statewide. He pointed out that while Shoreline East is the focus of this bill, the commitment to enhancing rail services should extend to all lines in Connecticut.

Representative Kennedy raised concerns about the financial implications of the restoration, inquiring about the estimated costs associated with the bill. Cassandra Cohen, a committee member, estimated the fiscal impact to be around $25 million, noting that the original estimates were higher. The committee ultimately voted in favor of the bill, moving it forward for further consideration.

The committee then addressed Senate Bill 1081, which mandates an economic study of the areas surrounding the Mohegan Pequot Bridge. This study aims to assess whether the bridge can accommodate the increasing traffic from new developments in the area, including the Great Wolf Lodge. The bill was also passed to the floor for further discussion.

Next, the committee reviewed House Bill 7057, which requires the Department of Transportation to develop a schedule for funding noise barrier construction by October 1, 2025. This bipartisan initiative aims to address noise pollution from transportation projects and was met with unanimous support.

House Bill 5240, concerning the placement of traffic cones around landscaping vehicles parked on public highways, was also discussed and passed. This measure aims to enhance safety on roadways.

Finally, the committee considered House Bill 6861, which prohibits the intentional projection of lasers at aircraft. This bill, aimed at ensuring aviation safety, was similarly passed to the floor.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted a strong commitment from the Transportation Committee to enhance public transportation services, address safety concerns, and support economic development through strategic legislative measures. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential appropriations as these bills move forward in the legislative process.