CTDOT Schedules Public Meeting on $143 Million Route 9 Improvements in Middletown

The meeting will cover plans to remove traffic signals on Route 9 and make improvements to deKoven Drive and Rapallo Avenue.

By Chris Dehnel, Patch Staff

Nov 5, 2026 6:40 PM EST

The state DOT wants to remove traffic signals on Route 9 and make improvements to deKoven Drive and Rapallo Avenue. (CT Dot Traffic Camera)

MIDDLETOWN, CT — The Connecticut Department of Transportation has slated a public information meeting for Nov. 18 to discuss proposed improvements to Route 9 and downtown Middletown roadways, including the removal of traffic signals and upgrades to deKoven Drive and Rapallo Avenue.

The projects, identified as state Project Nos. 0082-0318 and 0082-0330, are intended to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion on Route 9 and the downtown Middletown roadway network.

The meeting is on tap for Middletown High School, 200 La Rosa Lane. An open house will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by a formal presentation at 6:30 p.m.

CTDOT said the projects are expected to require minor property acquisitions and easements.

Construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2027, although the schedule depends on funding, right-of-way acquisitions and permit approvals.

The estimated combined construction cost is $143 million. The projects are expected to be funded with 80 percent federal money and 20 percent state money.

The meeting will give residents and other interested parties an opportunity to review the proposed improvements, ask questions and submit comments.

People unable to attend can submit comments and questions through the project's online form at bit.ly/82-318Route9, by email at DOT.Rte9Middletown@ct.gov or by calling 860-594-2020. Comments may also be directed to Stephen Hall at Stephen.Hall@ct.gov.

Additional project information is available at portal.ct.gov/Route9Middletown.

The meeting location is accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act. CTDOT will record the presentation and post it to its public meeting video archive. Non-English closed captioning will be available through YouTube.

Residents seeking language assistance should contact CTDOT at 860-594-2109 at least five business days before the meeting. Individuals with hearing or speech disabilities can dial 711 for Telecommunications Relay Services.