Metro-North New Canaan Branch Line Service To Resume In September: DOT

NEW CANAAN, CT — Train service on the Metro-North Railroad's New Canaan Branch Line is scheduled to resume Sept. 2, beginning with the 6:28 a.m. train, according to the state Department of Transportation.

In a news release, DOT officials said a track improvement project that has been underway along the line for several months has been completed. Due to this, an existing speed restriction in the Stamford area has been eliminated, allowing trains to travel 20 miles per hour faster through this section.

Prior to train service resuming in the area, test trains will be operating along the New Canaan Branch Line between Stamford and New Canaan in both directions to test and inspect the railroad crossings and tracks, according to the DOT.

See also: New Canaan Approves Extension of Commuter Parking Permits

"We appreciate the public remaining patient as this important work took place over the summer months," CT DOT Public Transportation Bureau Chief Ben Limmer said in a news release. "These infrastructure improvements allow for improved and more reliable service on the New Canaan Branch Line into the future. We remind the public to use caution around the tracks as trains will resume operation shortly. We look forward to welcoming customers back on Sept. 2 as we head into a busy fall season."

DOT officials also remind the public to use caution at all railroad crossings and offered the following reminders and safety tips:

• Red Flashing Lights and Gates mean "Road Closed." It is unsafe – and illegal – for pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicle operators to bypass flashing railroad warning lights or lowered gates. A person violating a crossing as a pedestrian or motorist can be held liable for injuries to train passengers/railroad employees or damages to railroad property resulting from a train making an emergency stop to avoid a collision.
• Emergency Notification System (ENS). Each railroad crossing has a blue sign posted with a phone number and Crossing Identification Number to use in the event of a crossing emergency such as a car stuck on the tracks or malfunctioning warning devices. If your car gets stuck on the tracks – get out, get away, and phone the ENS number immediately.
• Railroad Property is Private Property. Using the tracks for walking, cycling, or vehicles is unsafe and against the law.
• Keep Pets Leashed. For their own safety and that of their handlers, pets should always be under control whenever near railroad tracks or crossings.

More information is available here.