$3 million in “quick release” emergency relief funds were made available to fund repairs following the tanker-truck fire and subsequent closure of I-95 by the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHA) on Monday, May 6 per a press release from the FHA.
“I-95 is a critical highway—for both the people of Connecticut and our nation’s transportation network—and the Biden-Harris Administration focused immediately on helping Governor Lamont quickly restore travel,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “These emergency funds helped Connecticut DOT safely repair and reopen the road in less than 80 hours and can now help with costs associated with rebuilding the bridge.”
“The damage to I-95 in Norwalk disrupted the daily lives, travel, and business for local residents as well as the surrounding regions that rely on this vital route,” said FHA Administrator Shailen Bhatt. “As one of the country’s busiest highways, the Federal Highway Administration worked swiftly to provide funding to CTDOT to repair and reopen the Interstate.”
Although Senator Richard Blumenthal has said he hopes to secure up to $20 million from the federal government, he welcomed the news of the quick release funds.
“This $3 million is fantastic, well-merited news for Connecticut taxpayers. A prompt positive federal response is welcome – just 48 hours after our request. I am proud to have led the Connecticut Congressional delegation’s strong support of these funds and will continue to explore and work for additional federal assistance.”
