Connecticut's $567 million bus-only corridor is finally opening after 18 years of study, planning and construction. Governor Dannel Malloy and state and federal transportation officials gathered in New Britain on Friday to launch CTfastrak, a 9.4-mile rapid transit bus between Hartford and New Britain.The system is set to provide 16,000 rides a day bringing commuters to universities, schools and shopping centers.
Governor Malloy and other state officials say it will be a quick, reliable and environmentally-friendly alternative to cars using Interstate 84 and local roads.
“By offering expanded service and a better experience, we can increase ridership even further, resulting in fewer cars on our highways and less pollution in our air,” Malloy said during his budget address in February.
Critics call it a boondoggle that's taking money from more important transportation projects. The federal government is shouldering most of the cost, with about $112 million coming from the state.
Supporters say the bus-only corridor will boost Connecticut's economy by spurring commercial and residential growth along the route.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
