Summer Means Road Repairs Across Connecticut

Summertime in Connecticut means one thing - a road near you is being repaired. At any moment between May and September you will encounter milling, paving, lane closures, temporary closures, and road crews telling you to slow down all over the state. Why are there so many road construction projects during the Summer here? I found a few good reasons.

My commute from Torrington to Brookfield is typically 45 minutes, but due to the temporary closure of 202 in Litchfield/Bantam, it's 50-55 minutes now. I-84, I-95, I-91, and the Merritt Parkway are all under constant repair and reconstruction year round, but our secondary highways and local roadways go under the pavers when it gets warm.

Here's Why Roadwork Rams Up During the Warmer Months in Connecticut

1. Materials - Warm, dry air makes the asphalt, concrete, paint, and adhesives dry or cure much faster. Cold weather repairs take much longer with more expensive materials. Asphalt cannot be mixed, set, or cured properly if it's too cold
2. Cold weather is harsh on the workers and equipment. Nobody enjoys working outside at 28F, even if you're making $200 an hour
3. Longer Days - Increased daylight hours = more working time for the crew
4. School is out - With the kids on vacation, fewer vehicles on the roads during daytime hours.

READ MORE: My First Encounter With the Temporary 202 Closure

The best way to stay on top of all of the temporary road closures in Connecticut that may affect you during your daily commute is through the Connecticut Department of Transportations Construction Advisory page on CT.gov.