HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Monday joined Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto in announcing that the Connecticut Department of Transportation has begun construction on the Dutch Point Viaduct rehabilitation project on Interstate 91 southbound in Hartford.

The Dutch Point Viaduct is the 61-year-old, 1,800-foot elevated bridge structure on I-91 southbound between the area of the Connecticut Convention Center and the Colt Armory. It includes ramps to and from the Whitehead Highway, connecting I-91 to downtown Hartford.

The purpose of the project is to upgrade the structural elements of the bridge to current safety standards. Improvements include the replacement of the viaduct’s bridge deck, drainage system, and installation of new barrier walls and highways lights, among other structural enhancements. Upon completion in fall 2026, the reconstruction project will improve safety for motorists, increase the viaduct’s load-carrying capacity, and extend the viaduct’s service life until it is replaced as part of the Greater Hartford Mobility Program.

The $91.85 million project is funded by a mix of 90% federal funds and 10% state funds. The funds are sourced from various federal programs, including those dedicated to highway and bridge maintenance and improvement.

“This $82 million investment will make a big difference for thousands of people across Connecticut who rely on this stretch of I-91 every day,” said Murphy. “The Dutch Point Viaduct is long overdue for repairs, and this plan to fix its aging infrastructure will help ease traffic flow and make driving safer for commuters without causing unnecessary disruption for drivers and local businesses.”

“This blockbuster $82 million federal grant will positively impact safety and quality of life for all Connecticut,” said Blumenthal. “This project is in our capital city but is key to transportation interests statewide. I’m proud to continue to fight for federal investments that improve aging infrastructure and make our roadways safer.”

“The Dutch Point Viaduct is a vital artery for thousands of commuters and visitors traveling through the Hartford region every day,” said Lamont. “Modernizing this aging bridge is a crucial investment to ensure the safety and reliability of this key stretch of highway. I appreciate the hardworking Connecticut Department of Transportation crews and contractors for their dedication to completing these upgrades.”

“Like many of Connecticut’s aging bridges, the I-91 viaduct was built for a different time and requires significant upgrades to the bridge deck to extend its service life,” said Eucalitto. “We urge motorists to slow down and move over when they see our crews working on the highway or in the roadway shoulder on this important project. Thanks to Governor Lamont and our federal, state, and local partners, we are upgrading this critical infrastructure while ensuring minimal disruption to commuters and businesses downtown.”

One lane of I-91 southbound in the area will be closed for approximately 18 months while work on the project is underway. Temporary nighttime lane closures between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. and daytime shoulder closures between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. will occur throughout the duration of the construction period. Additionally, the State Street on-ramp to I-91 southbound will be closed during all three stages of the project.

Motorists should anticipate potential delays during these times but can rely on traffic control measures and signage to guide them through the work zone.

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