Detour On Route 30 In South Windsor To Be In Effect Next Weekend

SOUTH WINDSOR, CT — Replacement of a railroad crossing on Route 30, also known as Ellington Road, is slated to begin around 5 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3. Therefore, the area near the rail crossing will be closed to all vehicular traffic for about 72 hours, according to the Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT).

The private construction project is being conducted by the Connecticut Southern Railroad, the company which owns the freight rail line. The existing railroad crossing, near the intersection of Route 5 (John Fitch Boulevard) is being completely replaced with all-new materials to enhance safety and provide a smooth passage for motorists, as well as ensuring the long-term viability of freight rail service in the region, the DOT said.

Replacement work will require a detour due to full closure of Route 30 at the railroad crossing during construction. All businesses on Route 30 will remain accessible from either Chapel Road or Route 194 (Sullivan Avenue) throughout the short-term construction project.

The posted state highway detour will utilize Route 194 to bypass the construction site, according to the DOT. South Windsor police said Burnham Street and Chapel Road will also be available for use as alternative routes for local traffic and emergency vehicles.

"This is a short-term construction project that provides a significant safety benefit for the freight line well into the future," DOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin Limmer said. "We appreciate the partnership with the town of South Windsor, local businesses and residents while this safety improvement project takes place in August."

The project is being funded by the Connecticut Southern Railroad (division of Genesee and Wyoming) with additional assistance from the DOT. Work is being performed in coordination between the DOT, town of South Windsor, first responders, bus and transit providers, and Connecticut Southern Railroad.

Extreme weather may alter the project schedules. Members of the public with questions are encouraged to contact the DOT Customer Care Center at 860-594-2560 or DOT.CustomerCare@ct.gov.