West Haven has launched a $136 million infrastructure replacement project focused on rebuilding two aging I-95 bridges, with completion expected by the end of 2027.
The bridges, spanning 1st Avenue and the Metro-North Railroad tracks for I-95 traffic, have existed for more than 70 years. They’ve reached the end of their lifespan and are being replaced with new ones that are state-of-the-art and will last at least 75 years, Governor Ned Lamont said.
“This is a long-term investment in safety and mobility,” Lamont said. “These bridges have served their time, and now we’re making sure the next generation of infrastructure is built to last — not just for West Haven, but for the entire region.”
Project Funding
Federal funding will cover 90% of the project cost and the remaining 10% will be funded by the state, the governor’s office and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said. Approximately 100 laborers are employed on the construction project.
The project is not just a replacement issue — it’s also to improve traffic movement on one of Connecticut’s busiest highways. Around 145,000 vehicles pass over the bridges daily, and rush hour brings traffic to a complete halt.
“Anyone who’s ever been stuck southbound around 4 and 6:30 is going to want this project,” said West Haven Mayor Dorinda Borer. “That weekday slowdown is not just infuriating — it’s a real safety issue.”.
One of the problems, Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Transportation Laoise King explains, is that the merge lanes near the bridges are too short, so motorists struggle to get on and off the highway quickly.
Traffic disruptions
In an effort to limit disruptions I-95 Bridges Replacement Project, phase one of the construction will involve building the foundations of the new bridges at grade level, underneath existing overpasses. As such, significant traffic reconfigurations aren’t projected until mid-year 2025, when the northbound Exit 43 ramp closes and the detours occur on nearby state roads.
The project will progress in stages to 2027, maintaining three travel lanes open in both directions during the day to provide traffic flow. In addition to the bridges being replaced, the workers will also be expanding the southbound lane from Exit 44, eventually creating an exit-only lane at Exit 43 to reduce congestion.
Lamont also praised the broader effect of the project, stating that aside from safer roads, it also has economic returns. “This is about putting people to work, keeping families in their homes, and building Connecticut’s workforce,” he said. “And it all begins with getting these bridges built.”
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West Haven’s I-95 Bridge Replacement Project Factsheet
Project Overview
Replacement of two 70-year-old bridges on Interstate 95 in West Haven, CT
Budget: $136 million (90% federal funds, 10% state funds)
Timeline: Completion expected by end of 2027
Scope:
Replacing bridges over 1st Avenue and Metro-North Railroad tracks
New structures designed with 75+ year lifespan
Extending southbound lane from Exit 44
Creating exit-only lane at Exit 43
Improving merge lanes to enhance traffic flow
I-95 Bridges Replacement Project: Traffic Impact
145,000 vehicles use bridges daily
Major traffic changes expected late 2025
Three travel lanes will be maintained during daytime construction
Northbound Exit 43 on-ramp closure planned with detours
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This post really clarified a lot of things for me.