Traffic light replacement in Kent draws criticism

KENT – The state Department of Transportation is scheduled to replace a traffic light fixture at the Kent four corners intersection, and some residents have raised concerns about the change.

First Selectman Eric Epstein notified residents of the change through an email sent Monday, April 27, outlining the DOT’s plans to replace the current wire-hung system at the intersection of Route 7 and Route 341 with metal beam-mounted fixtures. He also requested public comments to share with the agency.

By Friday, Epstein said he had forwarded five responses to DOT representatives. The unifying theme, he said, was concerns over aesthetics.

“Overwhelmingly, it was the look of these giant structures in our scenic downtown,” Epstein said.

The plans call for two black-painted mast arms, measuring 40 and 60 feet, on the northeast and northwest corners of the intersection. The lights themselves will have reflective backplates with yellow borders and will feature cameras to adjust signal and timing, along with “no turn on red” signs when the crosswalks are activated.

The DOT did not cite a single reason for the change when it was announced last year, but indicated the project followed an assessment that considered the signal’s age, maintenance needs, local input and safety concerns.

Epstein said much of the feedback focused on how the new setup could impact the visual character of the intersection, which is centered around the historic Soldiers’ Monument.

“That is a much-photographed area, and I fear the masts are going to be an eyesore forever going forward,” one resident wrote.

“The current light is relatively low key and better fitting for this small New England town and it functions well for public safety,” another resident said.

One respondent, who identified as a retired Connecticut State Police sergeant, said the change could also present an opportunity to improve traffic flow and prevent accidents.

The project was presented publicly during a meeting announcing a regional infrastructure upgrade initiative by the DOT in August 2025, and was attended by several Kent officials and members of the public. Epstein said that while the comment period has passed, he has requested that the state consider the input of Kent residents submitted last week.

Construction is not anticipated to begin until next year, and the project is entirely state funded.