COMMUTER PARKING LOTS

Parking opportunities away from Hartford for NERGC attendees on a day-by-day basis abound in Connecticut. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) has a system of 185 lots throughout the state.The Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Web page, www.ct.gov/dot , includes a Guide to Connecticut Park and Ride Locations at http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&Q=259406 .

It seems a little awkward to work with, but is worth your while if this topic interests you. It includes a list of all 185 lots in Connecticut, alphabetical by town, a description as to type of each lot and its connecting services, and interactive maps. While some overnight parking is permitted, "long-term" is not (they do not specify their meaning of long-term) and certain vehicles are not permitted in the lot.The DOT Web page also includes links to Express Bus Service, http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&q=305320 and Local Bus Service, http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&q=305318 .

Contact the State Department of Transportation (2800 Berlin Turnpike, Newington CT) at 860-594-2141 for additional information, including bus fares and your "landing place" in Hartford, in relation to the Convention Center (you may have to tie in with the free Star Shuttle in downtown Hartford).And another reminder that the "Star Shuttle", a free bus that connects several points within the city, runs every 12 minutes, from 7am to 11pm. This provides ready access from NERGC conference area to nearly all of the highlights in town, without moving your car or trying to hail a cab.