Interstate 95 in Connecticut reopened after a fiery accident that damaged an overpass and shut down the highway. The accident occurred when a fuel tanker carrying thousands of gallons of gasoline ignited the Fairfield Avenue Bridge in Norwalk. Governor Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency due to the significant damage caused by the intense heat from the burning fuel. The repair cost is estimated to be around $20 million, and the state is seeking federal funding to replace the bridge.
There were no serious injuries in the crash, but the closure of Exit 15 in Norwalk caused inconvenience for drivers who had to find alternate routes to cross the interstate. The state worked to reopen the highway and announced the reopening of the exit on Sunday. Workers spent 80 hours repairing the roadway, demolishing the damaged bridge, and clearing tons of steel, concrete, and debris from the interstate.
The crash occurred on the southbound side of the interstate involving a passenger vehicle, a tractor-trailer, and the fuel tanker carrying around 8,500 gallons of gasoline. At least half of the fuel spilled across the highway, causing a nightmarish rush-hour commute and forcing Norwalk Public Schools to cancel classes on Friday. The incident created traffic delays for miles and sent drivers on slow-moving detours.
Governor Lamont emphasized the importance of repairing the roadway for the well-being and health of the residents of Connecticut and the Eastern Seaboard states. The reopening of the highway brings relief to drivers and allows normal traffic flow on the major artery along the East Coast. The state’s efforts to replace the damaged bridge will ensure the safety and convenience of commuters.
The cost of demolishing the bridge and replacing it is a significant expense, but it is necessary to maintain the infrastructure and ensure the security of residents. Governor Lamont expressed the state’s commitment to seeking federal funding for the bridge replacement. The reopening of Exit 15 in Norwalk provides a crucial connection for drivers to cross the interstate.
Overall, the reopening of Interstate 95 in Connecticut after the fiery accident restored normalcy to the affected area. Workers’ tireless efforts in repairing the roadway and bridge, as well as the state’s commitment to seeking funding for the replacement, demonstrate a dedication to infrastructure maintenance and public safety. The accident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and repairing critical infrastructure to prevent disruptions and ensure the well-being of residents and travelers.
