Wethersfield Rail Line Repaired After Cromwell Sinkhole

FEMA reimburses Connecticut DOT $4.4M for repairs to vital freight corridor

Jan. 31, 2026 at 5:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A key freight rail line that runs through Wethersfield has been fully repaired, and the state has now been reimbursed $4.4 million by FEMA for the massive 2021 sinkhole near the TPC River Highlands course in Cromwell. The Wethersfield Secondary line, which parallels Silas Deane Highway and crosses town streets 22 times, is considered a vital freight corridor, with repairs completed in 2022 and this week's funding simply covering past costs.

Why it matters

The Wethersfield Secondary line is a crucial freight corridor for the region, and the repair of the sinkhole damage helps ensure the continued reliable operation of this important transportation infrastructure. The FEMA reimbursement also helps offset the significant costs associated with the repair project.

The details

In 2021, a large sinkhole opened up near the TPC River Highlands golf course in Cromwell, causing significant damage to the Wethersfield Secondary rail line that runs through the area. Connecticut's Department of Transportation undertook major repair efforts in 2022 to fix the damage and restore full functionality to this vital freight corridor. This week, FEMA announced it would reimburse the state $4.4 million for the repair costs, helping to cover the past expenses associated with the project.

  • In 2021, a large sinkhole opened up near the TPC River Highlands golf course in Cromwell.
  • In 2022, Connecticut's Department of Transportation completed major repair efforts to fix the damage to the Wethersfield Secondary rail line.
  • This week, FEMA announced it would reimburse the state $4.4 million for the repair costs.

The players

Connecticut Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for overseeing the repair of the Wethersfield Secondary rail line after the 2021 sinkhole incident.

FEMA

The Federal Emergency Management Agency that has reimbursed Connecticut $4.4 million for the rail line repair costs.

TPC River Highlands

The golf course in Cromwell near where the 2021 sinkhole that damaged the Wethersfield Secondary rail line occurred.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The repair of the Wethersfield Secondary rail line and the FEMA reimbursement highlight the importance of maintaining critical transportation infrastructure, even in the face of unexpected natural disasters like sinkholes. This project ensures the continued reliable operation of a vital freight corridor for the region.