Transportation in Connecticut

Transportation in Connecticut consists of the different systems of mobility available in the state, including those available publicly, privately, on foot, and by vehicle. The main body of Connecticut's transportation system is in its road network, which provides the infrastructure necessary for private automobiles, truck-based cargo, bus transportation, and limited pedestrian and bicycle access. Aside from local roads and larger routes, interstate highways 84, 91, and 95 pass through Connecticut, carrying substantial vehicle traffic, although the state's parkways, such as the Merritt Parkway, also carry intrastate traffic on similar limited-access roads as well. The road network is complimented by a system of trails dedicated for pedestrians and bicyclists, in some cases taking advantage of previously abandoned railroad lines, known as rail trails. Connecticut still has a number of operational railroad lines, with the Northeast Corridor providing the most extensive passenger rail service in the state. Because of its position roughly half way between New York City and Boston, Connecticut has numerous connections to both cities. Other forms of transportation available include ferry services, notably those going across Long Island Sound, and aviation, with the largest airport being Bradley International, followed by Tweed New Haven.

Transportation in Connecticut has been organized since the colonial era, building upon existing indigenous trails, and has undergone a number of significant changes since the 1600s. Some previously important transportation systems which have since become disused include canals, notably the Farmington Canal, stagecoaches, and trolleys. Although historically managed by a number of different agencies dedicated to individual modes of transportation, transportation in Connecticut overall has been overseen by the Connecticut Department of Transportation since 1969.