Lamont and Sanchez Announce Safety and Security Upgrades for CTfastrak System

State and local leaders announced a comprehensive series of safety and infrastructure improvements for the CTfastrak bus rapid transit system on Thursday, aiming to boost security and rider confidence across the corridor.

Governor Ned Lamont, joined by state transportation and public safety officials, as well as New Britain Mayor Bobby Sanchez, detailed the multi-pronged approach that includes expanded police presence, new private security, and physical alterations to several transit stations.

“Every rider deserves peace of mind when they step onto a bus or wait at a transit station,” Gov. Lamont said. “We are making targeted investments to boost security and create a safer environment for the millions of people who rely on CTfastrak each year.”

“Today’s announcement shows what happens when government listens and follows through,” Mayor Sanchez said, adding, “Residents, riders, and members of our business community raised serious concerns about safety at the downtown CTfastrak station, and my administration brought those concerns directly to Governor Lamont and his team. I thank Governor Lamont for listening, taking these concerns seriously, and acting decisively in making this investment to help keep our community safe. These improvements, supported by strong coordination among our state and local partners, will give everyone who lives, works, visits, or travels through Downtown New Britain greater confidence and peace of mind.”

*DESPP Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins. Photo by Dr Frank Gerratana*

Among the most immediate changes is a new private security contract that took effect on July 15. The contract ensures that two security officers and a rotating supervisor are deployed on every shift to oversee the system.

Physical infrastructure changes are also on the way to improve line-of-sight and deter crime at the system’s stations. CTDOT plans to replace four enclosed waiting shelters—at the Downtown New Britain, Sigourney, Parkville, and Flatbush stations—with open glass windbreaks later this year. Additionally, new lighting has already been installed along the pedestrian walkway connecting the Downtown New Britain station to Columbus Boulevard.

The Connecticut State Police and the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) are expanding their partnership with CTtransit. Commuters can expect to see high-visibility patrols and targeted enforcement operations led by Troop H and the Bureau of Special Investigations. Police will also utilize real-time camera access to improve response times and track incident trends. The state is currently working with the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney and DESPP for procedures that would ban repeat offenders from all CTtransit and CTfastrak properties.

*DOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. Photo by Dr Frank Gerratana*

These new initiatives are a part of CTtransit’s, “Conn-Etiquette campaign to promote kindness, respect, and courtesy across the public transit system.”

Since its launch in 2015, CTfastrak has provided over 40 million rides through central Connecticut. The system, which recorded nearly 2.8 million rides in 2025, was recently recognized by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy as the best bus rapid transit system in the United States.