Millions for Rail Improvements

November 18, 2024

Connecticut is on track to transform its railways after the federal government awarded millions of dollars to improve our public transportation system. I'll break down how this investment will be a game changer across the state.

It was a pleasure meeting dozens of Waterbury students at the State Capitol. Please keep scrolling to see pictures of the visit and to learn why they stopped by.

You can enroll right now for health insurance via Access Health CT. The timing is key because the sooner you act, the sooner you will get coverage. Read below to learn how you can enroll or renew your plan.

You will find the following sections below:

  • Huge Investment to Improve Connecticut Rails
  • Waterbury Students Visit Capitol
  • Access Health CT Open Enrollment
 
Huge Investment to Improve Connecticut Rails
Connecticut is ready to improve its railways after receiving approximately $291 million from the federal government. The money comes from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Additionally, the Connecticut Department of Transportation will provide $120 million, and Amtrak will contribute $11.7 million to a number of rail projects across the state.
This game-changing investment will modernize our transportation system, making it more reliable while creating jobs and supporting economic growth. Track and rail improvements will give commuters more options to move around the state, shorten travel times, as well as reduce traffic and pollution statewide.
Click here for specifics on the rail projects
Thank you to the White House and Connecticut’s Congressional delegation for working together to secure this vital funding.
 
Waterbury Students Visit Capitol
I was thrilled to host dozens of students from the 75th district at the State Capitol. For many of these youngsters, it was their first time getting up close and personal with local government. I was proud to show them around the House and Senate Chambers last week and provide a lesson on what it takes to serve in the Connecticut House of Representatives.
This visit was an exciting opportunity for these third graders from Washington Elementary School to get a better understanding of how our government functions. I broke down the entire process of drafting, creating, and passing a bill into law. Some students asked some thought provoking questions, which demonstrates their creativity and curiosity. Their interest not only reflected a deep understanding but also a readiness to think critically.

Additionally, it’s important for our students to see a person of color representing their interests at the Capitol. I told them about my humble upbringing in Waterbury and shared my path to the legislature. It included hard work, but more importantly, I serve as an example of someone from their community who became a respected leader. I hope my story inspires them to pursue their dreams and possibly become a legislator.

I would like to thank the students, teachers, and staff for taking the time to visit the Capitol and to learn more about the Connecticut General Assembly.
 
Access Health CT Open Enrollment

You can enroll right now for health insurance through Access Health CT (AHCT). Anyone who lives in Connecticut can shop and compare health insurance plans or renew their coverage. Customers may also enroll in dental insurance through AHCT. Open enrollment ends on January 15, 2025.

When you enroll affects when your coverage starts. If customers enroll on or before December 15, coverage will start January 1, 2025. If they enroll between December 16 and January 15, 2025, coverage will start February 1, 2025.

AHCT is the only place Connecticut residents can get financial help to pay for their health insurance. Nearly 90% of AHCT customers enrolled in a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) receive assistance. Some customers might also qualify for the Covered CT Program. This program provides no cost insurance for eligible residents.

Free help to sign up is available online, in person, and over the phone. For a list of enrollment fairs and to register, visit the Enrollment Events webpage on the AHCT website. Information about enrollment locations and Navigator locations are also listed. Customers can also get help from a certified broker or enrollment specialist in their community.

Go to AccessHealthCT.com and click "Get Help" or call 1-855-805-4325. Help is available in more than 100 languages. Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call a relay operator. People can also chat live with a customer service representative by clicking the “Live Chat” icon on the website.