The state bonding commission approved a $7 million allocation Wednesday to fund the design of a signalization system for the Waterbury branch of the Metro-North train line.
The 27-mile Waterbury branch of the commuter rail line passes locally through Seymour, Derby and Ansonia.
Ridership on the Waterbury branch is low in the lower Valley — about 1,000 riders a day Monday through Friday in 2011 and 2012 — but proponents say that would change if the service improves.
Part of the problem is the fact the single track lacks signalization — a safety system that prevents trains from colliding.
Valley leaders have been pushing for years for improvements to the line.
The $7 million kicks off the design phase for the eventual installation of a “cab signal system with automatic train control.”
In the last four years, the state has invested almost $11 million in Waterbury Branch-specific projects to restore the line to a state of good repair, according to a prepared statement from Gov. Dannel Malloy’s office.
“This investment is one of many we have made in the Waterbury Branch Line to ensure a better level of customer satisfaction that riders deserve,” Malloy said in the release. “The new design of the cab signal will enhance service on this rail line and provide a more reliable transportation alternative for residents of the greater Waterbury area.”
The governor’s press release included positive comments from state Sen. Joe Markley, a Republican, and state Rep. Anthony D’Amelio, also a Republican.
“Our first priority in government should be taking care of what we have and the Waterbury line — an increasingly important transportation artery for Valley commuters — has been in desperate need of upgrades for years,” Markley said. “I’m delighted that the needed funding is on its way. The investment will pay off many times over for the city of Waterbury and the surrounding towns.”
“The Waterbury line is important to both daily commuters and occasional riders and I’m happy the delegation was able to secure these funds to improve the line for everyone,” D’Amelio said. “Providing the best service possible, with minimal delays, is a benefit to the entire area.”
