Along The Lines

In this episode, we're joined by Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons to discuss exciting transportation improvements coming to Connecticut's second-largest city, including enhancing the Stewart B. McKinney Transportation Center, as well as initiatives to boost mobility, sustainability, and economic growth. Discover how Stamford and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) work together to build a stronger future.

Metro-North's New Haven Line had a record-breaking year—with an all-time high on-time performance, rising customer satisfaction, and faster travel times! Join us as former Metro-North President Catherine Rinaldi and new President Justin Vonashek share insights on these achievements and what's next for one of the busiest rail lines in the country. Don't miss this inside look at the future of rail travel between Connecticut and New York City!

Tune in as we celebrate a decade of CTfastrak! Since its launch in 2015, CTfastrak has provided over 26 million rides and spurred economic growth. Named the best bus rapid transit (BRT) system in the U.S., it continues to set the standard for public transit systems. Join us and guests, Mayor Erin Stewart and Michael Sanders, to reflect on CTfastrak's impact, milestones, and future. Don't miss this special anniversary episode!  

Exciting new rail connections are coming soon! Massachusetts' Compass Rail Plan is set to enhance regional transit, making Springfield the key hub for connections to Worcester and Boston. New stations in Windsor Locks and Enfield, CT, will also provide riders greater access to jobs, education, and leisure travel.  Tune in as we discuss Compass Rail with Meredith Slesinger, MassDOT Rail and Transit Administrator, and learn more about its potential to boost the economies of Hartford and Springfield!

Happy New Year! 2024 was a transformative year for Connecticut transportation. From opening the Stamford parking garage and expanding bus routes to launching microtransit services and celebrating sustainability milestones like the Drive Less Climate Challenge, we've made strides in accessibility, equity, and innovation. Join host Ben Limmer as he reflects on these achievements and previews what's ahead in 2025.

Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a key priority for the Connecticut DOT and is vital to revitalizing and strengthening communities. In this episode, we talk with Meriden Mayor Kevin Scarpati to explore the city's remarkable transformation sparked by the new CTrail Hartford Line station. We're also joined by Elise Greenberg, Transit Manager at the Connecticut DOT, who discusses how Meriden's TOD success story serves as a blueprint for other initiatives across the state.

In this episode, we hear from Dan Baker, CTDOT's Transportation Supervising Planner, who provides updates on the 26 actions from the 2023 Customer Experience Action Plan and introduces three new initiatives to improve bus and rail services. Michael Helta, Maryland Transit's Chief Customer Experience Officer, also joins us and shares how his agency enhances the rider experience. Tune in for valuable insights into public transit innovation and customer-focused improvements.

This episode explores workforce development's vital role in strengthening regional economies by focusing on people rather than individual employers. Join us for a discussion with Carita Ducre from the American Public Transportation Association as we explore the connection between public transportation and its contribution to a robust economy and employment. We also examine how workforce development can improve public transit systems through employee training, development opportunities, and more.

Connecticut's annual Stand Down event, happening Sept. 20th, provides essential services for veterans, National Guard members, Reserve members, and their families. This one-stop resource event offers support from state and federal agencies, nonprofits, and veteran organizations. Retired Brigadier General Ron Welch, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, and Blake Roberts, CTDOT Transportation Planner, join us to discuss how Stand Down supports those who have served our nation.

In this episode, we examine the Connecticut Department of Transportation's final report of the Greater Hartford Mobility Study. This community-driven initiative was developed to reimagine and reconnect neighborhoods for enhanced mobility throughout Greater Hartford.  Join us as we speak with Kim Lesay, Bureau Chief of Policy and Planning, and Kevin Burnham, Transportation Supervising Engineer at CTDOT, to explore this visionary plan for creating a vibrant, sustainable, and multimodal transportation network.  

In this episode, we dive into the critical role of social equity in shaping communities where everyone can thrive and participate. Discover how the CTDOT is committed to creating vibrant communities with cleaner environments, affordable housing, reliable public transportation, and more. Tune in to learn how social equity fosters a more inclusive and sustainable future. Our special guest, Taiwo Jaiyeoba, National Director of Bus Rapid Transit at Lochner Engineering, shares his valuable insights on this topic.

Join us in celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Chester-Hadlyme ferry's vessel, the Selden III. We will explore the ferry's rich history and discuss how it continues to connect communities across the Connecticut River.  Special guests Captain John F. Kennedy, ferry captain from the CTDOT, and Lynn Wilkinson, President and Communications Chair from Friends of Gillette Castle State Park, will share their insights on the history and ongoing community impact of the Chester-Hadlyme ferry.

It's time for the Drive Less CT Climate Challenge, kicking off on Earth Day, April 22nd. Since 2018, this initiative, led by CTDOT in collaboration with CTrides, has seen impressive results in raising awareness and promoting sustainable transportation. Tune in to discover more about the challenge, its environmental benefits, and how to participate with our guests, Russell McDermott from CTrides and Liam Cawley from the CT Science Center.

Embark on a trip into the future of public transportation with Along the Lines! Host Ben Limmer takes you on a captivating journey into the world of microtransit, joined by special guests Mark Goodale from the Connecticut Department of Transportation and Matt Pentz from Norwalk Transit District. Tune in to hear about Connecticut's pioneering pilot project and discover the benefits of microtransit and its transformative potential in shaping the future of public transportation.

The CT Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is embarking on an ambitious initiative to elevate bus services across the state. Tune into the latest episode of Along the Lines as host Ben Limmer discusses Connecticut's visionary plan with guests Lisa Rivers from CTDOT and Michael Carroll of Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT). Backed by substantial investments from Governor Lamont and the State Legislature, this plan addresses the pressing need for expanded bus service. Tune in for insights and updates.  

In this episode of Along the Lines, host Ben Limmer and guests Sharon Greene and Gary Pescosolido delve into the funding sources, the challenges faced, and the importance of modernizing public transport infrastructure. This informative discussion sheds light on the process of funding public transportation initiatives from a state and national level.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation is planning to acquire 60 state-of-the-art rail cars for the CTrail Hartford Line, Danbury, and Waterbury branches. Tune in for an insider's look at the future of Connecticut's vital rail lines with host Ben Limmer and his guests Marci Petterson and Carol Rose. They will share insights on the customization process and the pivotal role these sleek coaches will play in enhancing Connecticut's rail travel.

Join host Ben Limmer, Bureau Chief for the Connecticut Department of Transportation, in this special episode as he recaps the transformative year of 2023. From groundbreaking projects to innovative programs, Limmer highlights significant accomplishments that have shaped Connecticut's transportation landscape. Tune in as he shares these highlights and insights into plans for an exciting year ahead!

In the latest episode of Along the Lines, host Ben Limmer and special guests Rahmane Camara (Transportation Planner 2 at the Connecticut Department of Transportation) and Carmine Fiore (Regional Sales Manager at New Flyer) discuss Connecticut's bold journey to electrify its entire bus fleet by 2035. Learn how this green initiative addresses climate change and improves air quality in Connecticut and the region.

Tune in to the latest episode of Along the Lines with host Ben Limmer and discover details about the Connecticut Department of Transportation's (CTDOT) recent Customer Experience Action Plan. Special guests Alicia Leite and Doug Holcomb share customer feedback and their insights on CTDOT's initiatives to improve the quality of public transit in Connecticut. Don't miss this episode to learn more about the measures being taken to provide more accessible and enjoyable public transportation.

Technology has had a transformative impact on public transit. It has changed how we navigate our cities from bus systems, to planning strategies, and fare payment methods. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has recently implemented Token Transit – the app that's changing the game for CTtransit riders with smartphone-based fare payments. Join host Ben Limmer with expert guests: Tamara Lima, Chief Customer Officer at Token Transit, and Tricia Chastanet, Transportation Supervising Planner at the CTDOT. Tune in to discover how public transit is more convenient and accessible than ever before!

Welcome back, listeners! Get ready for an exciting return of "Along the Lines" as we introduce our new host, Benjamin Limmer, Public Transportation Bureau Chief at the CTDOT. In this episode, we'll dive into Ben's inspiring vision for a sustainable, innovative, and collaborative transit future in CT. Join us in giving a warm welcome to Ben and discover the ambitious goals that lie along the lines of Connecticut's transportation systems.

Earlier this year, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) initiated the Customer Experience Action Plan as a way to collect customer feedback and input regarding future programs, policies, and investments to improve public transportation in Connecticut.  Tune in to this new episode and join guest host Alicia Gonzalez, CTDOT Commissioner Joseph Giulietti, and CTDOT Transportation Supervising Planner Alicia Leite to hear how the Customer Experience Action Plan will be used to benefit the state.

Join Rich Andreski as he hosts his last episode of the Along the Lines podcast. As he reflects on the past 7 years as Bureau Chief of Public Transportation at the Connecticut Department of Transportation, Rich discusses the highlights, success, accomplishments, and future plans for the CTDOT. While we must bid farewell to our esteemed host, Along the Lines continues with exciting plans for future episodes. Stay tuned!

As a major transportation hub for Connecticut, New Haven Union Station is the epicenter of rail connections to New York City, Hartford, New London, Springfield, Boston, Washington, D.C., and points in between. It also welcomes travelers with magnificent architecture, ornate ceilings, and unique designs. On this episode, Rich Andreski and his guests will discuss the historic agreement that will redevelop New Haven Union Station and surrounding neighborhoods, all to better serve riders.

Summer is right around the corner and the ParkConneCT program has returned for your outdoor adventures! A collaboration with the Connecticut Departments of Transportation (CTDOT) and Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), ParkConneCT will provide safe and reliable transportation to several state parks. Free shuttle connections will be available to access Hammonasset Beach, Silver Sands, Fort Trumbull, Sleeping Giant, Sherwood Island, Osbornedale, and Indian Well State Parks. On this episode, join special guest host Alicia Gonzalez and her guests to hear how ParkConneCT is providing expanded transportation options to the beautiful state parks of Connecticut this summer.

Urban renewal left a legacy of broken neighborhoods in Hartford and other cities. The development of Interstates 91 and 84 allowed for faster transportation into the city but also destroyed neighborhoods and cut the city off from the Connecticut River. Today, programs like iQuilt and the Hartford 400 plan are actively working to reverse this trend and reconnect Hartford's neighborhoods. Tune in to Episode 31 with Rich Andreski and his guests to hear how a coalition of organizations work together to reclaim land for new neighborhoods, homes, and businesses in Hartford.

Waterbury is a significant hub for Connecticut's rail network. The Waterbury Line connects people in Waterbury and the Naugatuck Valley to New Haven, New York and all points in-between. The recently upgraded Waterbury Line boasts many features that improve operations and our customers' experience.  Join Rich Andreski and guests from the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments and the CTDOT Office of Rails to hear about the exciting improvements made to the Waterbury Line.

Public transportation connects our communities in many ways, especially for job seekers and those entering the workforce. As Connecticut's economy continues to develop and companies are looking to fill open positions, it is critical that our transportation systems are up-to-date and are aligned to meet our rider's needs. Tune in to this episode to hear Rich Andreski and his guests discuss the importance of frequent and reliable public transportation in order to support the workforce of Connecticut.

For many Connecticut residents, the bus plays a vital role in their day-to-day lives. As technology continues to advance and commute patterns shift, our bus systems must also be enhanced and stay up-to-date to meet the rider's needs. Electric buses, expanded service hours, real-time signage, and express buses are just a few of the improvements riders have seen.  On this episode, join host Rich Andreski and his guests from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and CTtransit to hear about the future of CT's bus systems.  

E-scooters and e-bikes are small, “micromobility” vehicles, powered by electricity or manual power. They save money on gas, and help the environment. Microtransit is an innovative on-demand transit service that can bridge the gap between public transportation trips. On this episode of Along the Lines, join host Rich Andreski and his guests to learn how both micromobility and microtransit are expanding our travel options and the future of transportation right here in Connecticut.

For those who are blind or have low vision, navigating life is not easy. Even something as simple as taking a bus or train comes with challenges. With the new pilot program Aira, riders can now live stream through their phone's camera and connect to personal agents who can help them navigate by describing their surroundings. Tune in to hear more about the CTDOT and the Department of Aging and Disability Services' (ADS) ongoing effort to create the best public transportation experience for everyone in CT.

We all know green commuting is great for the earth and our state, but most residents don't think about it as part of their day-to-day life. On this episode, we speak with three guests who DO use green commuting options on a daily basis, and they have some wonderful and positive stories to tell about how it has impacted their lives. Sit back, listen, and hear some exciting and inspiring stories about real people using public transportation in Connecticut. And, we promise you it will be “engaging”!

Tens of thousands of Connecticut's community college and state university students have traveled with the U-Pass CT program. Students at participating schools received the U-Pass CT card, which provides unlimited use of any public transportation. This program has also eliminated another barrier to higher education.  Join host Rich Andreski as he speaks with guests from the Department of Transportation and Capital Community College on the impacts and future growth of the U-Pass CT program.

In Connecticut, 38% of all greenhouse gases come from transportation! Our everyday choices of how we travel around the state have a lasting impact on the climate where we live, work and play. In this episode of Along the Lines, join host Rich Andreski and his guests from the Connecticut Department of Transportation and the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) as they discuss the importance of green commuting options, and how they are dedicated to making our vital public transportation systems more resilient to climate change.

2021 was yet another year of uncertainty and change! But more importantly, it was a year of continued adaptation and ultimate growth. Essential workers such as our bus drivers and train conductors, continued to persevere, vaccines became readily available, and public transportation ridership numbers grew.   In this episode of Along the Lines host Rich Andreski reflects on the accomplishments from the past year and welcomes the new year with exciting goals and plans. Here's to a banner year in 2022!

From Mystic Seaport and Aquarium, to Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods casinos and resorts, and the picturesque beaches of the Long Island Sound, there's no denying that Southeastern Connecticut is filled with historic and world-class tourist attractions that draw millions of visitors from near and far each year. Tune in to this episode of Along the Lines as host Rich Andreski speaks with guests from the Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments and the City of New London about the importance of public transportation in the area and how it supports the region's tourism industry and the growing population.

Finding transportation options can seem overwhelming for our fellow citizens who are restricted by age, mobility issues, or cognitive and physical disabilities. However, with the services of Mobility Management as identified in The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, these individuals are provided assistance in navigating their way to accessible transportation. In this episode, join host Rich Andreski as he speaks with his three guests who work at the Kennedy Center in disability services and are passionate about helping the people of Connecticut live their best lives.

In 1959, the lively neighborhoods of New Haven, CT were disrupted and separated by the development of the Route 34 expressway. After nearly half a century, they will be reconnected through the Downtown Crossing project. This project will make the city safer, more accessible for pedestrians, and restore the urban street environment bringing economic opportunities to New Haven residents. In this episode, join Rich Andreski with two guests who oversee the Downtown Crossing project to learn more about it's positive impact on the city.

Connecticut has the nation's oldest continuously operating ferry service. Since the 1700s, the Connecticut State Ferry system has moved goods, passengers, bikes, and now cars across the Connecticut River. Today people use the ferries as part of their commute, but they play an important role in tourism and economic development in the region. Tune in to this new episode of Along the Lines and join Rich Andreski and Master Captain John Marshall to learn more about travel on the Connecticut River.

Returning to the Office – many employers and employees are wondering what that looks like and how it will evolve. On this episode of Along the Lines, we'll review a recent survey commissioned by the CT DOT to gauge the attitudes and intentions of commuters as workplaces start to reopen. Join series host Rich Andreski as he speaks with two experts Michael Vigeant, CEO of GreatBlue Research, and David Griggs, President, and CEO of the MetroHartford Alliance to discuss the implications of the findings, and get the perspective from the business community. 

In this second episode of The Future of Cities series, Rich is joined by two special guests - Brent Toderian, International Consultant and Founder of Toderian UrbanWorks, and Lynn Haig, Director of Planning at the City of Bridgeport. Tune in as they discuss how travel patterns have changed in Connecticut during the pandemic, including the increase in the use of bike and scooter-share programs, and changes happening across other countries.

The pandemic has changed everything: from where we work to how we travel. This, in turn, has changed transportation patterns in our cities. In the first of a two-part discussion, Rich is joined by guests - Brent Toderian, International Consultant and Founder of Toderian UrbanWorks, and Lynn Haig, Director of Planning at the City of Bridgeport. Tune in as they discuss how travel patterns have changed in Connecticut during the pandemic, including the increase in the use of bike and scooter-share programs.

How did essential employees travel to work during the height of the pandemic? What impact has COVID-19 had on companies planning for a hybrid work schedule? In this episode of Along the Lines, Rich talks with four special guests from a variety of industries on how their commute to work and the workplace were drastically affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.   Interviews conducted Spring 2021.

There are exciting projects on the horizon! From new rail cars, to faster travel times - the customer experience is sure to get even better. Join the discussion on future rail projects with special guests Rich Jankovich, Rail Administrator at the Office of Rails at CTDOT and Jim Gildea of the Connecticut Commuter Rail Council, for the second part of this two-part series.

There's no doubt about it: rail ridership in Connecticut has been affected tremendously by the COVID-19 pandemic. Join the discussion on current and future ridership trends with special guests Rich Jankovich, Rail Administrator at the Office of Rails at CTDOT and Jim Gildea of the Connecticut Commuter Rail Council for the first part of this two-part series.

Whether it was for recreation or commuting to work, it was clear that the number of people riding bikes increased in 2020. As biking continues to remain popular, the safety of cyclists remains a top concern. In this episode of Along the Lines, Rich talks to Holly Parker, Owner/ Founder of Less Road Traveled, LLC and Will Wright a Safe Streets advocate and member of People Friendly Stamford to discuss the current and future state of bike transportation and infrastructure in the state.

Did you know that CTfastrak, the first true Bus Rapid Transit system in New England, accounts for nearly 140,000 weekday trips? Join Rich as he talks with Erin Stewart, Mayor of the City of New Britain and George Howell, CEO of both the West Hartford Housing Authority and Trout Brook Realty Advisors, about CTfastrak's economic impact on the Greater Hartford Region.

Climate Change: it affects you, your state, and the Earth. Join Rich in the first of a series of climate conversations, as he talks to Ryan Hanrahan, Meteorologist at NBC Connecticut, and Katie Dykes, Commissioner at the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, about one of the most critical issues facing our state in this episode of Along the Lines.

On this episode, Rich is joined by journalist and long-time rail commuter advocate, Jim Cameron. Their lively discussion includes the future of rail transportation in Connecticut post-pandemic, behind-the-scenes operator relationships, and how to fund our transportation infrastructure moving forward.

Railroads were instrumental in building the state's cities and economy. Today, rail travel in Connecticut accounts for over 40 million trips, with New Haven Line (Metro-North) being the busiest commuter rail system in the country. Rich and his guest - Jack Swanberg, retired Lead Trainmaster for New Haven Line (Metro-North) - discuss the long and storied history of rail travel in the state.