CTDOT Announces CTpass Program to Support Workforce Development Applications Now Available
System-wide
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced that eligible organizations can now submit applications to participate in the CTpass program. CTpass offers 31-day bus passes to eligible organizations at a 10% discount per pass for CTtransit and CTfastrak bus services throughout the state, including Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, New Britain, Bristol, Waterbury, Meriden, and Wallingford service areas.
The CTpass program was developed to support workforce development and increase access to Connecticut’s bus transportation system. The Governor’s Workforce Council Legislation developed the CTpass program idea, which was passed through state legislation in 2022.
“Public transportation plays a vital role in expanding Connecticut’s economy by breaking down barriers to employment and connecting more people to opportunities throughout the state,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin Limmer. “CTpass will make a big difference in supporting Connecticut’s existing and future workforce. I encourage eligible organizations to apply and contact us with any questions. Our staff is here to help.”
Eligible organizations in Connecticut who can apply to participate in the CTpass program include:
- Organizations that provide a training program listed on the State of Connecticut Labor Department’s Eligible Training Provider List
- An apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship program sponsor
- A provider of an alternate route to certification program that the State Board of Education has approved
- An institution of higher education
- A private occupational school
- A private employer
- A state or municipal agency
- A public of nonprofit social service provider in Connecticut
Any organization that meets the criteria may apply. Upon the application submission, CTDOT will review the application and contact the organization for the next steps. The application period does not close.
For more information on the CTpass program and how to submit the initial application, visit ct.gov/dot/CTpass.
Organizations that want additional information or have questions about the CTpass program and application process are encouraged to email DOT.CTpass@ct.gov.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
860-594-3062
CTDOTMedia@ct.gov
Connecticut Receives $38.9 Million Grant from Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to Upgrade CT fastrak to All-Electric Fleet
Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto (second from the left), Governor Ned Lamont (center), and the Federal Transit Administration’s Peter Butler (farthest right) present the milestone award grant.
CT transit is excited to share that Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) recently announced a $38.9 million Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant to help convert our CT fastrak to an all-electric bus fleet.
“This significant investment showcases our commitment to sustainable transportation and underscores our dedication to fostering skilled professionals for the future,” said Thomas E. Stringer Jr., General Manager. We look forward to this initiative’s positive impact on our community, environment, and local economy. Thank you to the FTA and the CTDOT for their continued support.”
L to R: Peter Butler, FTA Region 1 Administrator, and Thomas E. Stringer Jr, CT transit General Manager.
This significant grant, awarded through the FTA's Low or No Emission Grant Program, will facilitate the purchase or lease of zero-emission transit buses and the necessary facility upgrades.
CT transit will use these funds to acquire 46 battery-electric buses and install 29 chargers for the fastrak bus rapid transit service. The grant will also cover the cost of installing 25 depot chargers at the Hartford facility, four on-route chargers at the CT fastrak New Britain Station, and the required electrical infrastructure. This initiative is backed by over $17 million in matching state funds and $30 million from federal formula funds.
This milestone represents a monumental leap towards Governor Lamont's objective of transitioning the entire statewide public transportation bus fleet from diesel to zero-emission models by 2035. It's a testament to our collective commitment and the potential for a greener future.
Governor Lamont.
“The new battery-electric buses and chargers will help us meet the growing demand for reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly transit options, and will greatly benefit the thousands of residents and commuters who rely on CT fastrak services every day,” said Governor Lamont. “Thank you to the Biden-Harris administration for continuing to invest in green technology that will modernize Connecticut’s public transit system and spur new economic opportunities across the state.”
Around $5.6 billion in funding has been allocated through President Joe Biden’s recently enacted Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support the replacement of thousands of public transit vehicles nationwide.
Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto addresses the media.
“Investing in electric buses for the CT fastrak fleet is a forward-thinking move that highlights Connecticut’s dedication to sustainability and innovation,” said Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.
CT fastrak was recently recognized as the best bus rapid transit system in the United States by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy.
home text