HARTFORD, CT — The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announces it is using the Planning and Environmental Linkage (PEL) process as part of the New Mix Program to plan for the long-term future of the I-84 and Route 8 interchange, commonly referred to as the Mixmaster.

Through the New Mix Program, CTDOT will analyze and weigh various reconstruction options and develop an actionable plan to modernize and improve the safety and functionality of the interchange. Due to its size and complexity, reconstruction of the Mixmaster interchange is likely to occur in phases over many years.

Through the PEL process, the New Mix Program will identify breakout projects, which are intended to not only complement and advance the overall program, but also be more manageable in terms of funding and traffic impacts during construction. CTDOT is currently undertaking a separate Rehabilitation Project to extend the Mixmaster’s lifespan by approximately 25 years.

The New Mix program is beginning to identify the needs and deficiencies of the existing interchange. With input from the public and stakeholders, a Preliminary Purpose and Need statement and Program Goals and Objectives document will be established and used to evaluate various design concepts. The first public meeting for the New Mix Program is scheduled for later this spring.