ConnDOT appears to be seeking a final showdown with the Hartford metropolitan planning organization, the Capital Region Council of Governments (CRCOG), over the proposal to build the Griffin Line, a light rail transit link from Bradley Airport to downtown Hartford. Conn-DOT has long opposed the project and says the state cannot afford to build it. CRCOG has endorsed the line and wants to put a funding package for it together with the state’s participation.

Reportedly, ConnDOT has told the COG that if it includes the Griffin Line in its next capital plan, or "transportation improvement program" (TIP), Conn-DOT will retaliate by holding up other CRCOG projects and funding. CRCOG will meet Jan. 28 to formally consider "de-designation" of the Griffin Line. Transit supporters throughout greater Hartford have organized a pressure campaign to keep the project in the TIP.