CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NEWS RELEASE 2800 BERLIN TURNPIKE P.O. BOX 317546 NEWINGTON CONNECTICUT, 06131-7546

FOR RELEASE: September 22, 2017

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS TELEPHONE: (860) 594-3062 FAX: (860) 594-3065 WEB SITE: www.ct.gov/dot

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Due to a severe infestation of Gypsy Moths this spring and early summer the CTDOT is announcing the scheduled removal of significantly damaged and compromised trees on I-95 southbound between Exits 74 and 70 in Old Lyme.

Removal activities will take place at the direction of a licensed state arborist utilizing machinery and crews specializing in the safe removal of trees.   It is estimated that roughly 170 trees, mostly of the Oak variety,  are damaged so severely that they will not survive, necessitating proactive removal to safeguard the motoring public. Subsequent to tree removal activities, the areas will be allowed to naturally regrow.

 The removal process will take place beginning on Monday, September 25, and will be completed by October 9, 2017, weather permitting.  Motorists can expect a right-lane closure on I-95 southbound between Exit 74 in East Lyme to Exit 70 in Old Lyme.  Crash attenuator vehicles and signing patterns will be utilized to guide motorists through the work zone.  The work schedule for this project is from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Monday - Thursday).

Motorists are advised to use caution in the work area.