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DMV requests funding for facility repairs and modernization; Weathersfield branch flagged for replacement
Summary
The Department of Motor Vehicles briefed the subcommittee on a capital request to maintain DMV branch buildings and said the agency is seeking new locations — including a longer‑term replacement plan for the aging Weathersfield facility.
Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Tony G. presented the agency’s capital priorities, including repairs at multiple branch locations and strategic planning for replacement facilities.
Why it matters: DMV provides direct services to motorists and has a statewide footprint of branch locations. Commissioner G. said the agency is focusing on pragmatic repairs while working with the Department of Administrative Services to identify modern, accessible branch locations where long‑term needs justify new construction or major renovations.
What the testimony said - Facility needs: The governor’s proposed bonding allocates funds for roofs, HVAC, and other building repairs at DMV properties. Commissioner Greifinger said some repairs are short‑term patches and noted the Weathersfield building was constructed in 1961 and may be a candidate for relocation or replacement. - Weathersfield timeline and approach: The commissioner said locating and developing a modern replacement — including parking, public access and staff accommodations — is likely a multi‑year project; an adaptive reuse of an existing ‘‘box‑store’’ type building could shorten the timeline to three‑four years if a suitable site is identified, while full new construction would take longer. - Customer service modernization: DMV staff said customer‑facing improvements are under way, including appointment systems, improved in‑office throughput and back‑office upgrades. The agency is upgrading desktop systems (Windows 11 rollouts mentioned) and evaluating options such as mobile IDs, mobile wallets and other technologies while balancing cybersecurity and privacy considerations.
Questions and committee comments Lawmakers raised concerns about employee and customer health at older facilities and urged the agency to move quickly when feasible. The DMV reported local positive customer experiences from recent branch visits and stressed a continuing effort to expand online transactions to reduce in‑person demand.
Ending The DMV said it will continue to work with DAS to identify potential sites for relocations and to prioritize repairs necessary to maintain safe working conditions while longer‑term solutions are negotiated.
