Jennifer Leeper

I hope that your fall is off to a nice start. I wanted to give you all an update on the I-95 Tree Cutting issue with DOT that occurred over the summer. I have continued to bring DOT’s attention to the issue and have been working to find solutions on multiple fronts.

I truly understand what a tremendous impact this has had on the quality of life for you in these neighborhoods. I have been extremely disappointed with the lack of remedies offered so far despite repeated requests.

That being said, CTDOT met with me on-site yesterday; a meeting that was originally requested to the commissioner back in June.

I wanted DOT to experience the dramatic increase in noise as well as the lack of sight-barrier as a result of the "vegetation management" policy. The Department will be conducting a noise assessment across the state to better inform future policy and sound mitigation work, which is critically important.

In addition to this meeting, I have also submitted a State Bonding request to fund the construction of sound barriers along these sections of Highway for I-95 Southbound (between exits 20 and 21 and exits 22 to 24) as well as I-95 Northbound (between exits 21 and 22) in Fairfield. That request also includes funds for replanting of trees to replace the many dead, decaying or diseased trees that were removed over the summer. The request will go to the Bond Commission for next steps.

As a part of the Bond package the legislature passed, and I supported, during the 2022 session we did add language to now include funding for noise barriers, which previously had not been included.

I am also working on legislation for the next legislative session that begins in January to improve the process and notification requirements when it comes to this type tree cutting performed and to reexamine the DOT's 30’ clear zone. In addition, we are working on establishing minimum noise levels and metrics, which would trigger when sound mitigation would be required as well as allocating funds for replanting of trees and require them in the scope of DOT’s work for vegetation management.

I hope this information is helpful and look forward to providing you another update in the very near future.