Navigating New Britain: A Guide to Local and Regional Transportation

Located in the heart of central Connecticut, New Britain serves as a crucial residential and commercial hub. Its strategic position means that efficient transportation is essential for residents, students, and commuters. The city boasts a well-developed network of public transit, major highways, and connections to regional travel, making it an accessible and well-connected place.

Public Transportation: CTfastrak and CTtransit

The cornerstone of public transportation in New Britain is CTfastrak, Connecticut's first bus rapid transit (BRT) system. This modern and efficient service provides frequent and reliable connections between New Britain and Hartford, with stops in neighboring towns like Newington and West Hartford.

• CTfastrak: Operating largely on a dedicated bus-only roadway, CTfastrak avoids traffic congestion, offering a faster commute than traditional bus services. New Britain is home to several key stations, including the Downtown New Britain station, which acts as a central hub. This service has transformed regional travel, making it easier than ever to commute to the state capital for work or leisure.
• CTtransit Local Buses: Supplementing the BRT system, a comprehensive network of local CTtransit bus routes serves neighborhoods throughout New Britain. These routes provide vital connections to shopping centers, medical facilities, schools, and areas not directly on the CTfastrak line, ensuring thorough coverage across the city.

Major Highways and Roadways

For those traveling by car, New Britain is situated at the crossroads of several major state highways, offering excellent connectivity to the wider region.

• Route 9: This is a primary north-south artery that runs directly through the city. To the north, Route 9 provides a direct link to I-84, a major east-west interstate. To the south, it connects New Britain with Middletown and I-91, the main corridor running between New Haven and Hartford.
• Route 72: This expressway offers a crucial east-west connection, linking New Britain directly to I-84 in Plainville and extending eastward to connect with Route 9.
• Route 71 (Chamberlain Highway): This surface road serves as another important local route, connecting New Britain to the Berlin Turnpike and surrounding communities.

Connections to Rail and Air Travel

While New Britain does not have its own passenger rail station, regional and national rail services are easily accessible. The Hartford Line commuter rail and Amtrak services can be accessed at nearby stations in Berlin or at Hartford's Union Station, a short trip away via CTfastrak.

The primary airport serving New Britain and the greater Hartford area is Bradley International Airport (BDL) in Windsor Locks. Located approximately 25 miles north, BDL is readily accessible by car via I-84 and I-91, offering flights to destinations across the country and internationally.

Other Transportation Options

In addition to public transit and personal vehicles, residents and visitors can utilize ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, which operate throughout the city. Local taxi companies are also available. For shorter trips, several areas in New Britain, particularly the downtown district and the "Little Poland" neighborhood on Broad Street, are pedestrian-friendly, offering a walkable environment with shops and restaurants.

The transportation system in New Britain, Connecticut, is robust and multifaceted. The integration of the CTfastrak bus rapid transit system with a network of major highways provides residents with flexible and efficient options for navigating the city and the entire central Connecticut region.