Trumbull To Install Traffic Signal On Monroe Turnpike

TRUMBULL, CT — Trumbull has received state approval and a $1.6 million grant to install a traffic signal on Route 111 (Monroe Turnpike) and make other improvements to the Pequonnock River Trail crossing, town officials announced this week.

The project was initially conceptualized during a Route 111/25 Planning and Engineering Study, officials said, and after several years of identifying a funding source and designing the signal and trail changes, the project will be advertised for construction bids in the coming weeks.

Funding for the project, which will cover 100 percent of the costs, is coming from the state Department of Transportation's Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program.

"This project has been a top priority of mine and will greatly improve safety for people using the trail," said Trumbull First Selectman Vicki Tesoro in a statement. "While the town had made some short-term improvements to the existing crossing, the situation remained less than optimal. Trail users will now be able to follow the trail to a safe crosswalk at a traffic light. The project will also improve the traffic flow in and around the commercial plaza. I want to thank town staff, MetroCOG, and our State legislative delegation for working with us on this important project."

Added Trumbull Police Chief Michael Lombardo, "This area has many trail users per week traversing the trail. The mid-block crosswalk was an ongoing safety concern. The new configuration will greatly enhance public safety in the area."

The project includes the installation of a traffic signal at the commercial plaza housing a number of businesses, including Prime One Eleven and The Edge Fitness. The trail will be redirected to that light and a new crosswalk will be installed.

Additionally, improvements to the trail connection into Old Mine Park will also be made. During the course of the project planning and design, a number of community meetings were held in which attendees focused on safety and connecting the area to the commercial center to support residents, visitors and businesses.