Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont said his state will receive $25 million in emergency relief funds to reimburse the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) for road and bridge repairs after the 2024 floods.
The state had applied for the funding after making repairs to dozens of roads and bridges washed out and damaged by the August 18, 2024, rain and flooding event in the western part of the state. The money announced recently was in addition to the $3 million in “quick release” emergency funding from Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), approved last year. The total cost of emergency road and bridge repairs from the 2024 storms is estimated to be nearly $40 million, exceeding the $28 million approved by the federal government.
“This reimbursement from the Federal Highway Administration is a big help as we continue recovering from extreme rainfall that impacted Connecticut,” Lamont said. “As storms grow more frequent and intense, reliable federal support is essential to help Connecticut rebuild resilient infrastructure that can withstand the challenges ahead. Thank you to our Congressional delegation and our federal partners for ensuring Connecticut receives this important funding.”
After the storm, CTDOT immediately began on repairs so it could reopen impacted roads and bridges. The state transportation department used available federal funds to make immediate repairs. Now with the latest funding the state can replenish its coffers and use the money there for the projects it had initially intended.
Three bridges in Oxford and Southbury are in design for future construction. Those costs are also eligible for emergency relief funds. The state said it expects to apply for additional emergency relief funding in the future.
“We deeply appreciate the continued support of the USDOT and FHWA. The initial quick release emergency relief funds allowed CTDOT to act immediately after historic flooding. This additional reimbursement is vital as it replenishes resources and enables us to continue repairing and strengthening Connecticut’s roads and bridges,” Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said.