CT DOT Releases Plans For Rumble Strips On Parts Of West Street In Vernon

VERNON, CT — The Connecticut Department of Transportation wants to install center rumble strips on a section of West Road in Vernon.

The road was recently paved by the state and is officially known as state Route 527.

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A virtual public informational meeting for the project is scheduled for Oct. 27, at 6 p.m.

"This meeting aims to inform the community about the proposed project, gather feedback, and answer any questions. A question-and-answer session will immediately follow the presentation, which will be recorded," DOT officials said.

The project involves installing centerline rumble strips on West Street from 260 feet south of Dart Road to 60 feet south of Daryl Drive, and from 110 feet south of Ridgewood Drive to Dailey Circle.

"CLRS are a low-cost, proven safety countermeasure that alert drivers when they drift out of a lane, reducing head-on collisions and roadway departure crashes," DOT officials said.

Right-of-way impacts with the proposed project are not anticipated, DOT officials said.

Construction is expected to start in 2027, depending on funding, right-of-way acquisition, and permits. The estimated cost is $5,000 with 100 percent state funds.

Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne has opposed installation of rumble strips on state roadways in Vernon in the past and is against the West Street proposal. He said he wants people who live along and near West Street "to know about the plan and to be aware of the DOT meeting so that they can voice any concerns they have."

"When cars and trucks drive on these rumble strips they make a lot of noise and neighbors are going to hear them around the clock," Champagne said. "Cars and trucks travel West Street at all hours of the day and the noise is going to be constant. I want Vernon residents, especially those who live near West Street, to know about the plan, its potential impact, and to have the opportunity to tell DOT what they think."

Centerline rumble strips are similar to the shoulder rumble strips used on limited access highways, but are narrower and shallower. DOT said rumble strips help prevent head-on collisions and lane departures.