The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) alerts riders that train service on the Metro-North (MNR) Waterbury Branch Line resumes on Monday, October 28 with the 4:45 a.m. train from Waterbury and the 7 a.m. train from Bridgeport.
Over the last several weeks, CTDOT and Metro-North crews and O&G Industries worked to repair the rail line that was damaged during the historic August 18 rain event. The significant amount of rain created two washouts near Beacon Falls and Seymour which prevented any trains from operating. In Seymour near the Kinneytown Dam, crews had to build temporary access roads so equipment and materials could reach the washed out areas. Nearly 7,000 tons of material was needed to repair the washout, which was approximately 85 feet long, 60 feet wide, and 22 feet deep.
“The damage sustained along the Waterbury Branch Line was devastating and access to these areas was incredibly difficult. It’s remarkable what crews and contractors have been able to accomplish in two months to get trains running again ahead of our initial timeline,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Thank you to the CTDOT staff, O&G, Metro-North, and all our partners who worked hard virtually every day to restore service on the Waterbury Branch Line. We look forward to welcoming customers back on October 28.”
“We appreciate the patience of our Waterbury Branch customers while permanent repairs were made to address the major washouts along the branch,” said Metro-North Railroad President Catherine Rinaldi. “Although we were able to provide substitute bus service during this period, we are thrilled to be able to welcome our Waterbury Branch customers back on board.”
In advance of train service resuming, test trains will be operating along the Waterbury Branch Line between Waterbury and Bridgeport in both directions. These trains are necessary to test and inspect the railroad crossings and tracks over the entire rail line. The public is reminded to use caution at all railroad crossings, adhere to all posted signage and never attempt to cross tracks while the gates are down and lights are flashing. Only cross the tracks at designated crossing locations, as walking on or along railroad tracks is dangerous and against the law.
Buses will continue operating in place of trains on the adjusted schedule until regular train service resumes on Monday, October 28, 2024.
All rail customers are encouraged to pre-purchase their rail tickets before boarding. Customers may use the MTA TrainTime app or ticket vending machines conveniently located at most New Haven Line stations. For information on how to use the app, visit new.mta.info/traintime.
For real-time service updates and information, customers can use the following options:
MYmta app – Customers who use the comprehensive MYmta app will see real-time travel information for all MTA services in one place.
new.mta.info – The “Service Status” box at new.mta.info is always the definitive source for the latest status for each line.
For those who prefer to contact the MTA by telephone, information is available by dialing 511. Connecticut customers should call (877) 690-5114. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing can use their preferred service provider for the free 711 relay to reach the MTA at 511.