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    1. Rail

    CTDOT implements bus service on Danbury Branch Rail Line beginning May 16

    May 13, 2020
    Bus service will allow for social distancing and for rail line infrastructure improvements to progress more quickly.
    Related To: Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT)

    Substitute bus service on the Danbury Branch commuter rail line will begin May 16, according to the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT).

    Ridership has been down since the COVID-19 pandemic; buses will allow riders to maintain social distancing and will have the added benefit of allowing rail line infrastructure improvements to progress more quickly.

    Connecticut rail service has seen a significant decline in ridership overall, the result of increased teleworking and requests by Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont for citizens to “Stay Safe, Stay Home.” CTDOT also announced increased cleaning of buses and trains to keep frontline employees and customers safe.

    CTDOT and Metro-North Railroad are working together on a $15-$20 million capital improvement project, which will provide reliable infrastructure on the Danbury Line rail service.  The capital work includes track improvements with the installation of 16,000 to 18,000 wood crossties between Wilton and Danbury, surfacing the track between Norwalk and Danbury, cleaning up and disposal of old crossties, repairs to three bridges and five grade crossings and removal of fiber cable from old metal and wood poles and disposal of the poles.

    The substitute bus service will be provided by Leprechaun Bus Service and will provide travel options for those who must still travel.

    All rail customers are encouraged to pre-purchase their rail tickets before boarding. Danbury Branch Line customers may purchase rail tickets using the Metro-North ticket mobile app or through Metro-North Ticket Vending Machines located at many Danbury Branch and New Haven Line stations.

    CTDOT says it strongly encourages the public to reserve bus service for essential travel only, such as getting to and from work or for procuring essential needs such as food and medication. Customers should practice social distancing while waiting at bus stops and while riding the bus.  Customers are encouraged to wear masks while traveling on board buses and trains.