Last week we reported that ConnDOT is behind the times on transportation financing, preferring to over-allocate funds towards road projects while seriously under-investing in transit. On Wednesday, the Stamford Advocate reported that Connecticut transportation advocates and various elected officials agree, and are eagerly awaiting the announced retirement of ConnDOT commissioner James Byrnes on April 1^st.

They told the paper that the DOT under Byrnes’ leadership has failed to invest in mass transit. They pointed to improvements that should have been made last year, such as purchasing new rail cars for the ageing New Haven Line, and studying congestion pricing as a way to raise more money for transportation in the state.

Last year, ConnDOT Commissioner James Byrnes was appointed by Governor Rowland. Although the Transportation Strategy Board recommended several other candidates for the position, none were interviewed. Byrnes had been with ConnDOT for 35 years, and many questioned the Governor’s appointment. Transportation reformers are looking to the next commissioner for a change of heart and policy direction, and hope to see a wide-ranging search re-opened.

However, Westport First Selectwoman Diane Farrell was correct when she told the Advocate that no matter who is appointed, good transportation decisions ultimately rely on the governor. "The vision has to come from the top," she told the paper.

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