Amtrak Awards $1.3 Billion Contract to Replace Aging Connecticut River Bridge

Amtrak announced the selection of a joint venture between O&G Industries and Tutor Perini to construct a new, state-of-the-art bridge across the Connecticut River.

The project marks a significant investment in improving Amtrak's Northeast Corridor infrastructure and will enhance safety, speed, and reliability for passenger and freight trains.

The current bridge, built in 1907, has reached the end of its service life and experiences frequent operational issues, including challenges opening and closing for river traffic. The new bridge will address these concerns and provide several key benefits:

• Increased Speed: The new bridge design allows trains to travel at speeds of up to 70 mph, a 55% increase from the current limit. This will significantly reduce travel times for Amtrak passengers along the Northeast Corridor.
• Improved Reliability: Modern infrastructure will ensure smoother operation and minimize delays caused by bridge malfunctions.
• Enhanced Safety: The new design prioritizes safety features and will be built to withstand modern standards.
• Accommodates Maritime Traffic: Increased vertical clearance will allow for smoother passage of boats and barges under the bridge.

Project Funding and Timeline

The $1.3 billion project is primarily funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, with an additional $827 million federal grant from the Federal Railroad Administration. The remaining costs will be covered by Amtrak and the state of Connecticut.

Construction is expected to begin in late summer or early fall of 2024, with substantial completion anticipated by 2031. This project represents a major step forward in modernizing Amtrak's infrastructure and ensuring a more efficient and reliable rail network for the Northeast Corridor.