CTfastrak: A Decade of Excellence
Connecticut Department of Transportation Transit Administrator Lisa Rivers cuts the ceremonial cake alongside Governor Ned Lamont, Senator Richard Blumenthal, and Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto at the CTfastrak anniversary celebration.
One decade ago, CTfastrak launched with an ambitious vision: to establish itself as a leading bus rapid transit (BRT) system connecting New Britain and Hartford. Today, with millions of satisfied customers and millions of miles driven, CTfastrak stands tall as the number one ranked Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in America, according to the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy.
“For the past 10 years, CTfastrak has transformed public transportation in Connecticut by providing efficient, reliable service that connects communities and supports local businesses,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Transit Administrator Lisa Rivers. “It has become an essential part of our transit system, and we are excited to continue building on its success for years to come.”
CTfastrak has earned its reputation as a staple of the community it serves, proving to be more than just a transit system—it is an environmental lifeline and catalyst for economic development.
The dedicated people who help keep Connecticut moving.
At its core, CTfastrak is about service. CTfastrak helps commuters reach job opportunities, students get to class and provides families with access to food, shopping, healthcare, and entertainment CTfastrak is a reliable resource for everyday opportunities.
That service also includes an established commitment to the well-being of its customers. "Our main responsibility is to care for our customers," said John Moise. “This is a role that we take seriously, emphasizing it with all of our employees.” CTfastrak has played a role in saving lives by identifying customers who may be experiencing a heart attack or stroke and contacting emergency services immediately. During the pandemic, CTfastrak essential workers were on the front lines, distributing masks to customers in need.
Beyond transportation, CTfastrak has value as a catalyst for substantial economic development. According to CT Insider, the system has prompted the development of 700 housing units near the guideway, with an additional 1,300 units planned. This growth represents a significant $588 million in construction investment and has added $33.5 million in appraised property value, a clear indication of the economic potential that CTfastrak holds for the future.
“CTfastrak has been a game-changer driving economic growth and revitalization along its corridor,” said CTtransit General Manager Thomas E. Stringer Jr. “The transit-oriented development we have witnessed—including new housing and businesses—demonstrates the value a reliable transit system offers.”
CTfastrak isn't just about taking customers from station to station—it’s about transporting them to the places they love. Through CTfastrak and adjoining CTtransit lines, customers can access some notable regional destinations, including:
- XL Center and Dunkin’ Park for sports and entertainment
- Parkville Market and Gastropark for food
- Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) for higher education
- Amazon and Aetna for employment
- Westfarms Mall and Copaco Shopping Center for retail
- UConn John Dempsey Hospital for healthcare
- Hartford Union Station for additional travel beyond Connecticut
Governor Ned Lamont addresses the crowd during the CTfastrak anniversary celebration.
Additionally, CTfastrak continues to strengthen its relationship with the Connecticut State Police (CSP) through real-time monitoring and direct law enforcement support.
"We have forged an amazing partnership with the Connecticut State Police,” said Assistant General Manager of Safety, Security & Technical Training Christopher DeGrave. “Having an office for them at the base of the CTfastrak in Union Station and another at the newly renovated New Britain station provides us with a centralized hub for law enforcement to monitor activity, quickly respond to incidents, and collaborate with CTtransit to ensure the safety of our customers and operators."
As the calendar turns and CTfastrak rides into the next decade of service, exciting developments are on the horizon. Among the potential developments include the exploration of seating upgrades at stations, e to enhance comfort for valued customers. Additionally, early discussions are underway to consider redesigning station layouts to better serve the public and promote safety. Technological upgrades for IT systems are also on the table, to improve surveillance cameras and install digital displays to provide real-time updates for customers.
“We are constantly re-evaluating our system and searching for opportunities to enhance the overall customer experience,” said Assistant General Manager of Transit Services Patrick Cooney.
CTfastrak has proven that a transit system can provide more than just transportation—it can be a vital community resource. With its unwavering commitment to customer service and public safety, CTfastrak promises to build on the strong foundation established and remain an indispensable part of the region it serves.