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State of Connecticut Department of Transportation News

Web Site: http://www.ct.gov/dot/site/default.asp
2800 Berlin Turnpike, P.O. Box 317546, Newington, CT 06131 - 7546
Tel: (860) 594-2000

The mission of the Connecticut Department of Transportation is to provide a safe and efficient intermodal transportation network that improves the quality of life and promotes economic vitality for the State and the region.

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Grand Opening of the New Windsor Locks Train Station, Supporting Expanded Connections to Bradley International Airport

October 12, 2026

The new station relocates passenger rail and bus service from the south of the town's downtown area to a central location near Main Street, close to housing, businesses, Windsor Locks Town Hall, and the Windsor Locks Public Library. It notably includes expanded bus service to Bradley International Airport, providing weekday and new weekend connections to the best airport in New England. State and local officials celebrated the opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the station, located at 231 Main Street.

"We built this new station to correct the missing link in the redevelopment of downtown Windsor Locks, connecting residents to jobs and travelers to Bradley International Airport and beyond," Governor Lamont said. "Bringing rail and bus service into the heart of downtown encourages new housing and private investment and supports the town's growth for generations."

The new station provides 160 parking spaces, electric vehicle chargers, bicycle racks, and a dedicated bus pickup and drop-off area. An approximately 500-foot platform allows fully accessible level boarding, while a 9,500-square-foot station utility building supports operations and passenger access.

Passenger amenities include heated waiting areas, overhead canopies, an electric snow melting system, Wi-Fi, seating, ticket vending machines, passenger information displays, and emergency call boxes.

The overall $121.2 million project includes $46.1 million for station and roadway improvements and $75.1 million for track and pedestrian bridge improvements, funded with approximately 85% state funds and 15% federal funds. The investment supports Main Street revitalization and builds on nearby housing developments, including Montgomery Mill and Trinity Financial's planned transit-oriented development.

"With 43,000 passenger trips expected annually by 2030, Windsor Locks will become a regional transportation hub connecting rail, bus service, and Bradley International Airport for travel across Connecticut and the Northeast," Commissioner Eucalitto said. "Thank you to Governor Lamont, the Federal Railroad Administration, and Amtrak for bringing passenger rail and bus service into downtown Windsor Locks and helping transform the town's future." The project includes approximately 1,800 feet of Main Street reconstruction, with improved sidewalks, drainage, traffic signals, and a multiuse trail for walking and bicycling. A new pedestrian bridge over the Windsor Locks Canal connects the Main Street trail to the Canal Trail. Railroad improvements include reconstruction and realignment of approximately 5,700 feet of Track 1 and construction of approximately 4,400 feet of new bypass Track 2. Upgraded signals, railroad crossings, and train control systems will improve safety, reliability, and operational flexibility.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation is coordinating this work with Amtrak, which owns the rail line and is a major partner in the project. Track construction remains underway, with full project completion anticipated in spring 2028. "Congratulations to the Town of Windsor Locks, our partners at CTDOT, and everyone who will benefit from this station for years to come," Amtrak Vice President Infrastructure Delivery Warren LeBeau said. "Together, we've created a new, modern, and accessible station for customers, built improved infrastructure that strengthens the railroad, and providing better connections for residents, commuters, visitors all while supporting future growth in Windsor Locks and throughout the region."

CTtransit routes 24, 96E, and 905 Express will serve the new station. Route 24 provides daily connections to Bradley International Airport, with trips to Terminal A taking approximately 12 minutes and buses operating every 20 minutes on weekdays and every 40 minutes on weekends. Rail and bus service at the new station begins Sunday, October 18, 2026, with 31 weekday trains, 23 trains on Saturdays, and 24 trains on Sundays, scheduled beginning at 6:19 a.m. on weekends and 4:53 a.m. on weekdays. For bus schedules, fares, and route information, click here. and Rail schedules and tickets are available here;

Member News is provided as a service of the Midstate Chamber of Commerce and is also featured in the monthly "Chamber News" newsletter mailed to members.