Eversource requests 3–5 week full closure of Catherine Street for gas-main replacement; start date pending railroad permit

Eversource Gas told the Traffic Authority on Sept. 15 it needs a continuous full closure of Catherine Street between Grand Street and West Main Street for about 18 working days (roughly 3–5 calendar weeks) to replace aging gas infrastructure under a railroad right-of-way.

Ryan Buckland, Eversource Gas project manager, said the project requires large equipment and a continuous roadway closure. He said the company has awarded bids and is working with the railroad to obtain a permit; the anticipated earliest start is mid-October but exact dates remain subject to the railroad’s permitting schedule.

Buckland said TMP and Eversource will maintain driveway access for two residences on the southeast side near the tracks and will accommodate businesses where possible. He told the authority that Eversource and its contractor will give residents at least two to four weeks’ notice before the work begins and that the utility coordinates weekly with town DPW staff.

Commissioners asked about detour routing and business impacts; Eversource said traffic would be detoured via Grand Street and New Canaan and that driveway access for affected properties would be maintained until construction necessitates barricades at active work areas. Commissioners asked that the roadway be repaved properly after the work.

The authority approved the requested closure and asked that staff and Eversource notify affected residents and confirm paving plans before work begins.