I-84 INVESTIGATION

State Representative Selim Noujaim (R-Waterbury) today expressed shock and disgust over revelations that poor reconstruction work on Interstate 84 by Waterbury will further delay an already overdue project, and continue to interfere with the commute of motorists in the Waterbury area.

   Federal authorities are currently investigating the numerous problems with the project such as faulty drainage, cracked piping and other inadequate work.  The deficiencies were not properly inspected by the private engineers hired to do so.

    Representative Noujaim contacted the office of state attorney general Richard Blumenthal requesting legal action.  The Attorney General issued a statement today indicating that there is an ongoing investigation into the issue in cooperation with the Department of Transportation.

   “With the news that portions of interstate 84 between Waterbury and Cheshire would be dug up again to repair drainage problems on the newly widened highway, Waterbury once again absorbs the brunt of a state project being badly managed and inexcusably delayed,” said Noujaim. “I am truly distressed by the lack of responsibility on the part of the workers, engineers, and inspectors. Waterbury residents have suffered the agonies of traffic congestion and delays on interstate 84 for too long with no end in the foreseeable future. The guilty party must be identified, held accountable, and face legal action.”

   The cost of making repairs to the $52 million project is not yet known.

Back