CTfastrak: Is It On Track? A Busway Update

The Hartford-New Britain Rapid Busway is Being Built. How Can We Make It Better?

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A rendering of the Parkville CTfastrak station in Hartford
Photo:Courtesy CTfastrak
Mike Sanders of the DOT
Photo:Chion Wolf
Sandy Fry of CRCOG
Photo:Chion Wolf
David Corrigan of the Frog Hollow NRZ
Photo:Chion Wolf
CTfastrak: Is It On Track? A Busway Update
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CTfastrak: Is It On Track? A Busway Update

The busway planned between Hartford and New Britain has been dubbed CTfastrak, perhaps to get out from under the divisive political connotations of “busway.” But as the plans start to take shape, local politics are again playing a role.

Today, where we live, we’ll try to avoid the politics as much as possible, and find out how a major project like this comes together, as well as how it affects local communities. It’s been called a “boondoggle” by many who wish the federally-funded rapid transit busway would just disappear. But it’s here, and it’s being built now - like it or not. Construction began and final planning phases are underway.

A part of the plan includes a total street closure of Flower Street in Hartford, something that local business owners say will cut off Asylum Street and its large employers like Aetna and The Hartford from Frog Hollow and its up-and-coming district of restaurants and other businesses. The DOT says Flower Street will be permanently closed to make way for the busway, and cyclists and pedestrians will have to use other avenues to get around - which Real Hartford has demonstrated are dangerous alternatives, what with their on- and off-ramps for I-84.

How will you use the busway? Will it get you to or from work, shopping, school, and recreation?


  

Comments

Good interview, the busway is actually a good idea

I used to live in several other cities in the U.S. where there were quick bus transit options that actually spurred on new business development. I am guessing the real estate and businesses near the busway or ctfastrak project will actually prosper in the coming years. John Dankosky/WNPR actually did a good job here in bring out the details of how the buses will operate. This system will help our area actually grow.

the ctfastrak project for bus and people

i listen to mr. sanders live yesterday on wnpr. i thought john did a good job. BUT YOU KNOW WHAT? people in the area have to stop complaining and START THINKING ABOUT GROWING THIS AREA AND MAKING IT A HEALTHY AREA WITH BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES. TRANSPORTATION IS CORE FOR EVERYTHING. this ctfastrak is a good idea and it should actually be expanded. we should thank mr saunders from DOT and ask him about growing more transportation systems here in connecticut.

People can always use Broad

People can always use Broad St. This minor construction shouldn't stop anything going on in Hartford.