10/09/2026
Action on Rt 7 connector.
Following the tragic loss of Cooper Whiteside and Brittany Islami this summer, and hearing from other families who have lost loved ones along Route 7, I promised to stay on top of CTDOT and work with our towns to push for meaningful safety improvements.
I’ve continued following up, asking questions, and pushing for action. Now, I have some updates to share on what’s been completed, what’s coming next, and what still needs to be done.
Here’s where things stand:
ALREADY COMPLETED: New reflective speed limit signs were installed where needed along Route 7 in September.
COMING IN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS: CTDOT has provided timelines for additional oversized speed limit signs, refreshed pavement and shoulder markings, vegetation clearing to improve visibility, replacement of damaged traffic signs, and new speed reduction markings. Most of this work is expected within 2–4 weeks.
RUMBLE STRIPS: DOT is working through the design and feasibility of installing additional rumble strips near speed limit reductions, with an estimated timeline of 4–6 weeks.
HIGH-FRICTION PAVEMENT: Design is complete for safety treatments along two curves on Route 7 in Danbury. The project is expected to go out to bid in December, with construction anticipated during the 2027 construction season.
LONGER-TERM IMPROVEMENTS: DOT is also evaluating additional roadway lighting, enhanced centerline and shoulder treatments, clearer lane markings, and potential median improvements. These evaluations are underway, but timelines have not yet been established.
WE NEED YOUR INPUT!
WestCOG is developing a Regional Safety Action Plan to identify dangerous roads and intersections throughout Western Connecticut. They’re asking residents to share their experiences and identify locations where safety improvements are needed.
https://westcog.xyz/index.php/611453?lang=en
Identifying improvements and putting timelines on paper is only the beginning. We need to see this work completed, and we need to keep looking at what more can be done.
I promised to stay on top of this, and I will. I’ll continue working with CTDOT, our towns, and regional partners to follow up on these timelines, push for additional improvements, and keep you informed.
Everyone deserves to get home safely.
