Submitted by State Sen. Norm Needleman
(August 24, 2022)Â —An update on some recent developments in our region:
Electricity Rates to Decline in September
The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority issued decisions recently that will effectively reduce electric rates beginning September 1, 2022. The reductions will come from savings tied to power purchase agreements from the Millstone plant, which is serving as a financial benefit due to Millstone offering carbon-free energy at a low and fixed price. The rate adjustment will lead to an average monthly savings of nearly $10.00 for Eversource customers and $7.75 for United Illuminating customers. Effectively, the power purchase agreements made earlier this year save the state money since, if the energy can sell for more on the regional wholesale market, Connecticut residents receive credits for the net overages.
Arrigoni Bridge Work Completed
After two and a half years of work, upgrades to the Arrigoni Bridge – also known as the Portland Bridge – which included a replacement of the bridge’s deck, improvements to bridge approaches on both sides, new sidewalks and improved safety features are now complete. The Department of Transportation recently announced that the bridge, which carries traffic over the Connecticut River from Middletown to Portland, will now have an extended lifespan with enhanced safety for residents. It’s a great investment that will keep our communities connected for decades to come.
Connecticut to Receive $85 Million in Grants to Improve the Northeast Corridor
Connecticut will receive more than $85 million from the Federal Railroad Administration to fund infrastructure improvements along the Northeast Corridor. These projects will improve safety and reliability along the New Haven Line and Shore Line East, ending disruptions along the train corridor. About $65 million will be used to support the replacement of the existing Amtrak-owned Connecticut River Bridge between Old Saybrook and Old Lyme, allowing maximum speeds on the route to increase by up to 25 miles per hour, allowing for faster and safer transportation.
