CT-2023-024

Application Purpose: This award will provide funding for the Walk Bridge - replacement of three railroad bridges to improve the reliability and state of good repair of the railroad in Norwalk, CT.

Activities Performed: Package F includes the following three bridge replacements:
- Bridge No. 03691R Metro-North Railroad MP 42.14 over East Avenue - the bridge is over 116 years old with a structural rating of poor condition and is in need of replacement. The project also includes improvements to the adjacent East Norwalk MNR station platforms, which are not fully ADA compliant and have narrow platform widths today. This project includes the full demolition and replacement of the structure. The new bridge will be longer than the existing structure, allowing East Avenue to be widened in the vicinity of the bridge under a separate project. New platform extensions of the existing platforms and ADA accessibility improvements to both platforms. The station driveway to the northeast parking lot will be relocated to align with Fort Point Street/East Ave intersection, improving the safety and operations of the intersection.

- Bridge No. 08028R Metro-North Railroad MP 41.96 over Osborne Avenue - the existing Osborne Avenue bridge is a single-span structure carrying four active MNR railroad tracks over Osborne Avenue in Norwalk, CT. The bridge is over 127 years old with a structural rating of fair condition and is in need of replacement. This project includes the full demolition and replacement of the bridge superstructure.

- Bridge No. 04131R Metro-North Railroad MP 41.79 over Fort Point Street - the existing Fort Point bridge is a single-span structure carrying four active MNR railroad tracks over Fort Point Street in Norwalk, CT. The bridge is over 80 years old with a structural rating of poor condition and is in need of replacement. The new bridge and Fort Point Street roadway will be relocated west of their existing locations. The existing superstructure will be demolished and abandoned in place during construction when it is no longer required. Additional elements of the project include track and rail systems work extending from the Fort Point Street railroad bridge to just east of the East Norwalk station, allowing the replacement of all three bridges.

Expected Outcomes: These deteriorating railroad bridges carry the New Haven Line commuter rail service to New York City, which is integral to the Connecticut economy. These bridges are also part of the Northeast Corridor (NEC) connecting Washington DC to New York City and Boston. Intercity and high-speed passenger rail service on the NEC serves more intercity travelers within the Northeast than all commercial airlines combined. Per the NEC Commission, the NEC carries more than 800,000 passengers each day. All three bridges have a structural rating of poor condition. The replacement of all three will enhance the safety and reliability of the rail service. The improved efficiency and operability of these bridges is crucial for future ridership demand for Metro North Railroad, Amtrak, and the New Haven Line.

Intended Beneficiaries: Beneficiaries of this project include the Northeast Corridor, Metro-North Railroad, Amtrak, and the New Haven Line passengers.

Subrecipient Activities: Bridges replacement - demolition and replacement/construction.

Connecticut Department Of Transportation

20.534 - Community Project Funding Congressionally Directed Spending

FTA Region 1 [DOT - FTA]

FTA Office of Budget and Policy [DOT - FTA]

Connecticut United States

State-Wide

None