Connecticut has started construction on the first phase of the $1.6 billion Track Improvement Mobility Enhancement-1 (TIME-1) program. The three-phase project will modernize the New Haven Line between Bridgeport and Stratford. It will replace aging catenary systems, bridges, track, and signals while keeping Metro-North and Amtrak services operational. The full program is scheduled for completion by 2035.
The $340.7 million first phase covers a three-mile section of the corridor. Construction will replace 88 catenary structures, install four new crossovers, add new track connections and turnouts at the East Bridgeport Rail Yard, and replace the Longbrook Avenue bridge in Stratford. The upgrades will allow trains to operate at speeds of up to 90 mph on parts of the corridor, compared to the current 70 mph.
The Federal Railroad Administration is providing $184 million for Phase 1. The State of Connecticut is contributing $145.5 million, and Amtrak is providing $11.2 million. CTDOT awarded a $177.9 million construction contract to Yonkers Contracting Co., while Jacobs designed the project.
Construction is underway and will continue over 1,647 calendar days. CTDOT plans to begin Phase 2 in 2030 and Phase 3 in 2031, subject to funding. The completed program is expected to reduce travel times between New Haven and New York City by up to 25 minutes. CTDOT records show that the next two phases will cost approximately $1.3 billion to complete.