Route 7 bypass helps traffic, animals

Brookfield (WTNH) - Folks traveling on Route 7 may have an easier time getting around this evening. A new bypass was opened Thursday in Brookfield and it's not only expected to relieve congestion but improve things for reptiles, too.

More than 20-years in the making, it's designed to provide quicker access to this area while relieving congestion along Brookfield's main roads.

"It is something we believe that then and now is needed for western Connecticut. I can't wait to see the traffic flowing on it," said Governor Jodi Rell.

The Department of Transportation can boast about a new road, while environmentalists are proud of a first of its kind experiment in New England. It's a Wildlife Passage built underneath a portion of the extension in particular for the shrinking population of the Eastern Box Turtle.

"The natural topography funnels the turtles through this corridor...the animals would prefer not to go on the highway," said Environmental Scientist Dennis Quinn.

Three-years of research and monitoring helped determine the exact location of the tunnel. Turns out, it will be a useful path for many creatures.

"For larger mammals, like deer, I wouldn't expect them to use this structure, but small mammals do prefer it. One of the reasons is we have funneled them in with a concrete barrier," said Quinn. "The brush provides cover for the wildlife using the tunnel; it provides them protection so they feel secure as they are moving through it."

A camera will be monitoring the animal and reptile traffic that comes through.

"We'll be continuing to radio track this population for the next two years and video monitor them for the next two years as well," said Governor Rell.