Wrong-Way Detection System Work To Impact I-84 Travel: State

FARMINGTON/SOUTHINGTON/EAST HARTFORD, CT — State officials are warning Interstate 84 motorists of potential delays on the highway starting next week as contractors conduct maintenance on the wrong-way driver detection systems in three towns.

According to the state Department of Transportation, work will take place in East Hartford, Farmington, and Southington.

More specifically, work will happen on I-84 East at exits 28, 32, 37, 39, and 56 the DOT said. In addition, according to the DOT, work will happen on I-84 West at exits 29, 37, 39, and 56.

The project will start on Monday, April 7.

As a result of the work, motorists can expect ramp closures in the affected areas.

Traffic control personnel and signing patterns will guide motorists through the work zone.

The work schedule for this project is from 6:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., Monday to Friday.

"Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions," wrote the DOT. "Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area."

Wrong-way detection systems use video cameras to detect vehicles traveling in the wrong direction.

"If a vehicle is detected, wrong-way signs outlined with multiple sets of red lights are activated and begin flashing to alert the driver they are traveling in the wrong direction."

In addition, the systems alert the DOT Highway Operations Center and area State Police barracks in real-time, allowing staff to monitor the activities of the wrong-way driver on the ramp.

Wrong-way drivers have been blamed for myriad accidents and deaths in Connecticut in recent years, with state law enforcers cracking down on the problem.

For more information on DOT efforts to stop wrong-way drivers, visit this link.