NEWINGTON, CT. -  State Transportation Commissioner Joseph F. Marie announced today that the State Department of Transportation’s Office of Engineering  is developing plans to install low profile median barrier curbing along a portion of Route 493 (Washington Boulevard) between Division Street and U.S. Route 1 (Tresser Boulevard) in the City of Stamford. Plantings and swag chain fencing will be included within the barrier curb.  The purpose of this improvement is to discourage mid-block pedestrian crossings in this area.

"It is the Department's policy to keep the public informed and involved when such projects are undertaken," said Marie.  "It is important that the community share its concerns with us to assist in the project's development.”  If there is adequate interest, an informational meeting will be conducted.  At this time, it is not anticipated that a formal public hearing will be necessary.

The present schedule indicates that preliminary design plans will be available in February 2009, after alternatives are studied, environmental reviews conducted, and other federal and state requirements complied with.  This project will be funded with 80% Federal and 20% State funds.

Anyone  interested  in  receiving  information  on  this  project  may  do  so  by  contacting Mr. James H. Norman, Manager of State Design, at 594-3272 or by e-mail at                    james.norman@po.state.ct.us.  Please make reference to Project No. 135-300.