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HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced the launch of Connecticut’s first-ever oyster trail, accompanied by the premiere of the new short-form documentary, Rising Tide to Table, which celebrates the state’s thriving oyster industry, from farm to fork.

The Connecticut Oyster Trail meticulously maps out the diverse array of oyster farms and culinary destinations statewide, encourages residents and visitors alike to savor the local flavor of Connecticut's acclaimed oysters.

Click here to download the map

“Connecticut is the Napa Valley of oysters,” Governor Lamont said. “Once hailed as the ‘Oyster Capital of the World,’ we are reclaiming our place at the forefront of this maritime and culinary tradition. Today, we honor the tireless dedication of our aquaculture farmers, whose passion and perseverance are instrumental in inspiring a new generation of chefs to think about this fruit of the sea as king of the kitchen.”

With breathtaking visuals and poignant narratives, the documentary chronicles the journey of Stonington Farms Shellfish, a resilient family united by adversity, whose commitment to excellence echoes through every succulent oyster they cultivate. From the pristine taste to the deep cup and unparalleled quality, each oyster tells a story of craftsmanship and dedication.

Click here to watch the documentary

“It comes as no surprise that our aquaculture farmers are working closely with our best chefs to ensure the world knows that Connecticut has some of the nation’s best oysters,” Anthony Anthony, Connecticut’s chief marketing officer, said. “Rising Tide to Table tells the story of a small handful of our state’s best makers and entrepreneurs. We invite viewers to see their passion and creativity put into the farming and culinary craft, while experiencing the beauty of Connecticut’s coast in this vibrant short film.”

The newly minted Connecticut Oyster Trail charts a course through over a dozen oyster farms and more than 20 restaurants and stores, offering enthusiasts a firsthand glimpse into the thriving oyster culture that defines our state.

“From the ground to the Sound, Connecticut agriculture offers a diverse array of farm fresh products,” Connecticut Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt said. “Among them are Connecticut oysters, which have a unique flavor profile due to the waters in which they are cultivated, and an industry committed to protecting and restoring native shellfish habitats to guide their growth. The Connecticut Oyster Trail honors the rich traditions by connecting harvesters with consumers seeking dock sales to shuck at home or a night out at a dining venue featuring Connecticut oysters.”

“As we celebrate the launch of Connecticut’s first-ever oyster trail, I urge our state’s restaurants to embrace our local bounty and feature Connecticut oysters on their menus,” Governor Lamont said. “Supporting our local oyster farmers not only strengthens our economy but also allows diners to experience the exceptional quality and freshness of our coastal treasures right here in our own backyard.”

“The Connecticut Restaurant Association echoes Governor Lamont’s sentiment and encourages restaurants statewide to embrace our local flavors by serving Connecticut oysters,” Scott Dolch, president of the Connecticut Restaurant Association, said. “While many of our restaurants already feature Connecticut oysters on their menus, we extend a friendly call to those who have yet to join the fold. By supporting our local producers, restaurants not only enrich our culinary landscape, but also provides diners with an authentic taste of our coastal delicacies. It’s a win-win that fosters a culture of local pride and celebrates the unique flavors of our region.”

Anyone interested in viewing the map of the Connecticut Oyster Trail and watching the documentary can find both on the Connecticut Office of Tourism’s website at www.CTvisit.com.

These two projects were created in partnership between the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development and the Connecticut Department of Agriculture.

 

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto today provided an update regarding the ongoing demolition of the Fairfield Avenue Bridge over Interstate 95 in Norwalk, which is necessary due to the major motor vehicle collision that occurred in the early morning hours of Thursday, May 2.

Work to remove the damaged structure began at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, May 3, and crews will continue working on this around the clock through the weekend. Once the bridge is removed, sections of I-95 will be milled and paved in both directions in the area.

All lanes of I-95 northbound and southbound in Norwalk will remain closed until further notice. I-95 northbound is closed to all traffic at exit 14 and I-95 southbound is closed to all traffic at exit 15. Travelers are urged to avoid the area and use public transportation services. Commercial vehicles should use I-84 as an alternate route through Connecticut.

The goal is to have the highway reopened by the morning rush hour commute on Monday, May 6.

“I am strongly urging all drivers – whether you’re in a passenger vehicle or a commercial vehicle – to completely avoid I-95 this weekend,” Governor Lamont said. “Additional traffic is only going to make things harder for everyone. Please use public transportation if you need to move through the area. Heroic local and state first responders got the crash cleared and the fire under control yesterday, and now the amazing team with the Connecticut Department of Transportation, as well as our contractor teams, are going to be working all weekend under immense pressure to get the highway reopened. I appreciate their hard work and dedication to the people of Connecticut.”

“We are going to be working 24/7 throughout the weekend,” Commissioner Eucalitto said. “Thank you to the Connecticut Department of Transportation and contractor staff who are going to be working around the clock to get I-95 reopened by Monday morning. We appreciate the partnership with state and local police who are helping direct traffic and keep motorists safe. Special thanks to Federal Highway Administration and FHWA Administrator Shailen Bhatt for the continuous support.”

At the request of Governor Lamont and Commissioner Eucalitto, Metro-North Railroad has agreed to provide additional weekend service and increased capacity on trains along the New Haven Line. Full schedules and details can be found at new.mta.info. (To read the press release from Metro-North, click here.)

Following the emergency declaration signed by Governor Lamont on Thursday, May 2, the State of Connecticut today submitted a letter of intent to the Federal Highway Administration to pursue emergency relief funds. As part of the request, the Connecticut Department of Transportation is requesting an expedited release of $3 million to assist with the initial response.

Drivers are asked to remain patient and follow all posted signage. The public can visit CTroads.org for the latest update through the weekend and view the live traffic cameras in the area.

The following photographs were taken on the afternoon of Friday, May 3. They are courtesy of the Connecticut Department of Transportation:

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Governor Lamont Announces Live Video Feed of Bridge Demolition on I-95 in Norwalk

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut Department of Transportation has installed a webcam providing the public with a real-time, live video feed of the ongoing demolition of the Fairfield Avenue Bridge on I-95 in Norwalk.

The webcam can be accessed online, 24/7 at: https://share.earthcam.net/CTDOTNorwalkbridge

“There is significant interest in this ongoing emergency project, and this live video feed will help in our mission of keeping the public informed of the latest conditions on the highway,” Governor Lamont said. “We encourage everyone to view the video feed safely from home and do not attempt to travel to Norwalk to visit the scene up close. Let the crews do their jobs so the highway can get reopened as quickly as possible.”

Motorists are strongly urged to avoid driving on I-95 in the Norwalk region throughout the weekend. The public can visit CTroads.org for the latest updates on roadway conditions and traffic alerts throughout Connecticut.

Twitter: @GovNedLamont

Facebook: Office of Governor Ned Lamont

Twitter: @GovNedLamont

Facebook: Office of Governor Ned Lamont