Two Oxford Road Projects Approved by State DOT

Oxford First Selectman George R. Temple announced Friday that two major road projects have been approved by the State Department of Transportation.

Temple said he was notified Friday that the DOT commissioner on Sept. 17 approved a paving project for Route 188, Quaker Farms Road. The work will extend from Route 67 in Southbury through Oxford and Seymour and out to Route 34, Roosevelt Drive.

"Route 188, especially in Oxford, is in a severely deteriorated condition, Temple said, adding that he contacted DOT and asked for the road to be repaved.

Cosmos Ignoto, District 4 Transportation Maintenance Director for the DOT, said the project now goes to the state Bond Commission for approval for funding purposes, but said the work is scheduled to begin in the 2014 construction season.

Christian Street Paving Will Begin in April

Temple was also pleased to announce that the DOT contacted him Friday to say that construction of Christian Street will begin in April 2014. The $2.3 million project will reconstruct Christian Street from Towner Lane to Robinson Lane. 

James A. Fallon, manager of Design Services for the DOT, said the project involves the reconstruction of Christian Street for a length of approximately 3,400 feet, including replacement of the drainage system. He said traffic will be maintained by utilizing periods of alternating one-way traffic.

“These two projects will go a long way to upgrading our town infrastructure,’’ Temple said.  “Quality of roads is important to economic development as well as the comfort and enjoyment of Oxford residents. I will continue to advocate the upgrading of all town roads as part of a comprehensive road maintenance effort." 

Editor's Note: The above information comes from Joanne Pelton, Temple's administrative assistant.