The Route 11 Project And The Changes That Lie Ahead PDF Download

Connecticut Route 11 is a half complete state expressway running from Route 2 in Colchester to Route 82 in Salem. The state of Connecticut has planned to complete the original expressway plans from Route 82 to an interchange with Interstate 95 in Waterford for over 40 years. The purpose of this thesis was to explore what changes would likely occur within the Southeastern Connecticut Towns of Salem, East Lyme, Montville, and Waterford if the Route 11 expressway is completed. The four towns being studied are part of the Southeastern Council of Governments regional planning organization, and are considered to be within the New London/Groton Labor Market. This thesis focuses on possible changes to population, land development, and the regional and local economies. Methods for conducting the research included analyzing past and current population trends, past highway projects and their effects in Connecticut, and current planning efforts and land use regulations along the corridor. Research shows that due to the lack of commitment to the project, change is difficult to predict, and the four towns have not based planning efforts around its completion. However, conclusions were drawn that Salem is the town most likely to experience overall change, whereas Waterford and East Lyme are least likely to experience change. Overall, the regional economy may benefit from the completion of Route 11 as a result of increased accessibility. Some geographic areas may experience a decrease in economic activity. Growth in the corridor is unlikely to be as exaggerated as growth along other highway corridors throughout the state. This thesis also concluded that population growth can be expected after the completion of the Route 11 expressway, but again, not to the extent to which areas surrounding other corridors grew in prior decades. Land development can be expected in certain areas of the corridor depending on zoning and location relevant to distance from the expressway.