Today marks the launch of the CTfastrak Rapid Transit Line. Service is free for the first nine days, so now is a great time to check it out.
CTfastrak runs through Parkville, Frog Hollow and Asylum Hill. We can use CTfastrak to strengthen those important neighborhoods, benefit Hartford’s small businesses, and boost Hartford’s competitiveness.
To get the full benefits of CTfastrak, we need to promote ridership by supporting all of our forms of transportation: bus, bicycle, and pedestrian. We need to work with the state and the federal government to promote Transit Oriented Development and investment near the CTfastrak nodes. We need to work together with the small businesses that could benefit from CTfastrak, including by helping them access funds through the Small Business Express program. And we need to look for other ways to increase connectivity in Hartford, including by working to link and expand our green spaces.
From the beginning of my campaign for mayor, I’ve emphasized the need to turn our attention back to our neighborhoods. CTfastrak presents an important opportunity to do that. But it’s not just going to happen on its own. It’s going to take a focused effort and follow-through, and a Mayor who’s willing to get involved in the details of planning and implementation — and who’s working for all of Hartford.