New Canaan Delegation Announces Installation of Covering at Talmadge Hill Train Station

Today, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) thanked his colleagues in the legislature and First Selectman Kevin Moynihan for their work in advocating for the installation of a covering at the Talmadge Hill Train Station. This is a small but important step in improving the experience of commuters who rely on the New Canaan Branch Line. State and municipal leaders in New Canaan have worked collaboratively to fight for these coverings, which were recently installed by the Department of Transportation. 

“When I was running for the State Senate, I walked into the New Canaan Advertiser Coffee and listened to a conversation about the need for a covering at the Talmadge Hill train station," said Sen. Haskell. "Commuters were tired of braving the snow or rain as they waited for the train. It seemed like a tangible, fixable problem — exactly the sort of project I’d like to work on if I were elected. I’m proud to have worked with the New Canaan delegation, as well as First Selectman Moynihan and his team, to have these coverings installed. I also want to thank the Department of Transportation for working with us to better serve our constituents."

“The completion of this project is an example of government working well and people working well together,” said State Senator Alex Kasser (D-Greenwich). “By communicating directly with town and state officials, we were able to operate as a team and solve this problem quickly and efficiently. Waiting for a train in the rain is now solved!”

"I am thrilled to see this project finalized, and that our commuters now have an area that provides shelter from the elements as they wait for their train rides," said State Representative Lucy Dathan (D-New Canaan/Norwalk). "This was an issue and concern that constituents repeatedly voiced as I went door-to-door in Norwalk and New Canaan. Ensuring passengers' safety and comfort will lead to more positive travel experiences."

"Hopefully this is just the first of a number of improvements to the New Canaan Branch line, which is the busiest branch line in Connecticut," said State Representative Tom O'Dea (R-New Canaan). "Special thanks to DOT Commissioner Giulietti, Assistant Rail Administrator John Bernick and Legislative Director Pam Sucato along with New Canaan's First Selectman Kevin Moynihan and Public Works Director Tiger Mann, all of whom were instrumental in getting this done."

These three weather shelters were installed Tuesday, May 12 and work was completed Wednesday, May 13. Previously, the train platform at the station had no protections for commuters; during winter and inclement conditions, commuters had to stand exposed to the elements.