Connecticut River Bridge: 2026 Construction & Map

$1.3B Connecticut River Bridge replacement project, improving Northeast Corridor rail, starts late 2024, completes 2031.

Connecticut River Bridge: 2026 Construction & Map
July 5, 2024 5:18 am
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Project Profile: Connecticut River Bridge Replacement

The Connecticut River Bridge Replacement Project is a critical infrastructure upgrade on the Northeast Corridor (NEC). This initiative replaces the 1907-built two-track movable bridge with a modern, high-clearance bascule structure designed to enhance rail capacity, operational reliability, and maritime navigation between Old Saybrook and Old Lyme, CT.

AttributeDetails
Project NameConnecticut River Bridge Replacement Project
LocationConnecticut River, CT, USA (Northeast Corridor)
Project LengthApprox. 1,500 ft (457.2 m)
Max Speed (Post-Construction)70 mph
Estimated Cost$1.3 Billion
Status (as of Nov 2025)Under Construction
Key ContractorsO&G Industries / Tutor Perini (JV); Hardesty & Hanover (Lead Designer); AECOM (Construction Management)

Technical Specifications

The new bridge is a nine-span structure constructed approximately 52 feet south of the existing alignment to maintain continuous rail operations. The design features steel girder approach spans with a composite concrete deck, supported by a new substructure of concrete piers on drilled shaft or spread footing foundations. A key component is the 204-foot-long steel truss bascule movable span, which increases vertical navigational clearance from 18 feet to 24 feet when closed, and provides unrestricted clearance when open. The project scope includes the installation of modern 25Kv AC overhead catenary, advanced signaling and communication systems, and new interlocking tracks, all designed to AREMA and Amtrak standards for high-speed intercity rail.

Key Takeaways

  • Enhanced NEC Reliability: Eliminates a major state-of-good-repair backlog and single point of failure on America’s busiest rail corridor, significantly improving service dependability for Amtrak and Shore Line East commuter trains.
  • Increased Operational Capacity: The modern structure and upgraded systems will permit train speeds up to 70 mph, a significant increase that reduces travel times and allows for future service expansion.
  • Improved Maritime Navigation: By increasing the vertical clearance, the new bascule span reduces the frequency of bridge openings, minimizing conflicts between rail and river traffic on the Connecticut River.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the new Connecticut River Bridge be completed?

The Connecticut River Bridge Replacement Project is scheduled for completion in 2031. The work is being conducted in multiple phases to minimize service disruption, with final demolition of the old bridge and site restoration concluding the project.

Who is building the new Connecticut River Bridge?

The project is being constructed by a joint venture of O&G Industries and Tutor Perini. The lead design firm is Hardesty & Hanover, with AECOM providing construction management services on behalf of Amtrak.