The Connecticut River Bridge, originally constructed in 1907, is located on the Northeast Corridor (NEC) between the towns of Old Saybrook and Old Lyme and is used by Amtrak, CTRail’s Shore Line East, and freight trains. The upcoming Connecticut River Bridge project entails constructing a two-track, electrified, and movable bridge equipped with new track, signal, catenary, power, communication, controls and security features. This new bridge structure, expected to have a useful life of 100 years, will replace the existing two-track Connecticut River Bridge.

The new bridge will enhance reliability, resiliency and reduce delays for all users of the bridge. It is designed to support a maximum operating speed of 70 mph, a 55% increase from the current maximum speed of 45 mph. Maritime navigation and safety will also improve due to the increased vertical clearance compared to the existing bridge.

Amtrak broke ground Thursday, September 5th, 2024, on the modern Connecticut River Bridge, following the award of a construction contract to the O&G/Tutor Perini Joint Venture. Amtrak recently received permit approvals from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Amtrak will continue its public outreach efforts for this project as construction progresses.