To identify carbon reduction strategies, existing programs were evaluated, including bus electrification, bus rapid transit (BRT), complete streets, Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program projects, coordinated traffic systems, electric vehicle internal combustion fleet and charging, LED highway lighting, pollinator habitat restoration, roundabouts, and transportation alternatives.

Additionally, potential programs were evaluated, including building energy efficiency improvements, BRT light, consolidation of department of transportation facilities, CTrides data increases, e-bike chargers and lockers, electric maintenance equipment, geographic information system layers for traffic signal coordination, rail transit improvements, Safe Routes to School, sustainable construction, a sustainability rating system pilot project, solar in the right-of-way (ROW), transit access improvements, transit advertising, and transit-oriented developments (TOD).

We also analyzed the feasibility of employing CTDOT’s ROW for photovoltaic (PV) installations. Using ArcGIS, our team created a tool to screen CTDOT-owned properties for suitability. The tool helped us identify 35 potential PV sites, totaling nearly 140 acres. Solar PV installations on CTDOT’s ROW will help to facilitate the state’s economic growth and promote clean energy and efficient transportation.