One is a group of near-term projects that would use state revenue surpluses to send a public message that the state is moving to combat congestion. Projects totaling about $40 million would likely include closure of a number of I-95 on- and off-ramps in Fairfield County, additional operating funds for Shore Line East, a partnership with Amtrak to reduce commuter fares, bus service increases and funding for improvements in New Haven and Bridgeport to facilitate coastal barge service as an alternative to trucking on I-95.

The ramp closure plan is designed to reduce congestion created by lane changes associated with frequent I-95 on- and off-ramps. It is already under fire from citizens and local officials who say it will clog up the local road network.

Longer term recommendations from the board are likely to center on establishing a longer-lived advisory group tasked with a broad look at transportation planning, finance and projects in Connecticut. The new panel could be empowered for several years to undertake research and develop much more sweeping recommendations for new resources and policy approaches to mobility and congestion relief.