Lamont Releases Statement On Transformer Failure In Westport

HARTFORD, CT – Governor Ned Lamont released a statement Friday evening in response to the loss of a massive power transformer that serves the Metro-North New Haven Line in Westport. According to a press release, the transformer failed Thursday night and is having immediate implications for riders on the commuter rail line as trains are currently operating at 50 percent of their normal electrical power, which is causing delays.

According to an MTA Emergency Alert, the transformer was located at the Sasco Creek substation in the vicinity of Green's Farms. The substation supplies electricity to New Haven Line trains, and as a result trains are operating with a 50 percent power restriction between Norwalk and Bridgeport stations.

Officials are assessing the situation, however it may take an extended period of time to replace the massive, made-to-order equipment.

"If we continue to neglect our transportation infrastructure rather than update and invest in it, antiquated components, including this transformer, will have a ripple effect on the daily commute of thousands of residents, as well as our state’s economy," Lamont said in a statement. "This failure to upgrade is emblematic of why the state needs to take proactive steps to modernize Connecticut’s aging infrastructure to get Connecticut’s economy growing again."

There are four commercial supply substations in Connecticut. Two have already been modernized and upgraded in New Haven and Cos Cob. The other two, Devon and Sasco, are in the works to be upgraded. Devon should be completed this year, and the procurement process for Sasco is already underway.