Widening of interstate will create construction jobs in Connecticut

Posted on April 4, 2015

The widening of interstate 84 will possibly create more construction jobs in Connecticut.

The widening between the areas of Washington Street and Pierpont Road. The project, which begins work this week, will see the creation of an additional, third lane on the highway in each direction.

The reconstructed section of I-84 will have a 12-foot wide right shoulder, three 12-foot wide travel lanes, and a 12-foot wide left shoulder in each direction of travel, separated by a 10-foot wide concrete barrier section. Additionally, a 12-foot auxiliary lane will be provided on I-84 westbound between the on-ramp from Harpers Ferry Road and the off-ramp to Hamilton Avenue.

Our economic growth is directly tied to our transportation system, and if we want to develop our state and meet the challenges of the 21st Century, we need a modernized, best-in-class infrastructure for our residents. This widening project will decrease traffic congestion, improve traffic operations, and increase safety,” Governor Malloy said. “This project on I-84 in Waterbury is critical for the future development of this region of the state as we continue our efforts to keep Connecticut moving forward.”

Other improvements include the construction of a new frontage road on the north side of I-84, referred to as Plank Road East, and will be constructed parallel to I-84 between Scott Road and Harpers Ferry Road. Improvements are also being completed on Hamilton Avenue, Harpers Ferry Road, Scott Road, Reidville Drive, Plank Road, Plank Road East and East Main Street.