Construction On Merritt In Fairfield, Westport Enters Final Phase

FAIRFIELD, CT — The final stage of construction is underway for the ongoing Merritt Parkway improvement project in Fairfield and Westport, state officials announced Monday.

The project includes the rehabilitation of 5 miles in each direction on Route 15 as well as 11 overpasses and underpasses, plus pavement, guiderail, drainage and concrete upgrades, according to a news release from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. The $56.7 million project was awarded to Manafort Brothers Inc. in early 2017 and is scheduled to be completed Aug. 8.

Motorists can expect lane closures in both directions as construction continues. Closures will typically occur from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., but due to a reduction in traffic volume on the parkway, daytime lane closures from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. should also be expected.

During the final stage, the northbound and southbound lanes will be placed into alignment for paving overlay. The 5-mile stretch of the Merritt Parkway included in the project will be aligned progressing east to west as median reconstruction work is completed and temporary barriers are removed. Construction will also include raising drainage basin tops, paving the reconstructed roadway, installing pavement markings and median plantings, and establishing the grass shoulder.

The first 1.25-mile section of parkway to be placed into alignment will include southbound and northbound roadway from the Congress Street overpass to where the parkway goes over Cross Highway in Fairfield.

All motorists traveling on the Merritt Parkway are required to obey posted vehicle restrictions and are reminded that no vehicles over 8-feet tall are allowed on the parkway.