CT Route 11

In Eastern Connecticut sits an under funded, deserted, and unfinished highway that goes by the official name of CT Route 11. While traveling this road to nowhere it is almost certain you will be alone with no fear of rush hour traffic. Originally proposed to be a direct route from Colchester to Interstate 95, this indirect Route drops you off in the small town of Salem. The year 1972 was the last year of construction leaving a half finished highway with a large unpaved portion complete with carved mountains, two overpass bridges and storm drains.

Plans to revive the construction have been brought up countless times over the years with proposed tolls to fund the project, but each attempt has failed.

Photo by Google Maps

Photo by Google Maps

Downs Road

Downs Road, located between the towns of Hamden and Bethany, Connecticut. What once was a complete route from one town to another is now an abandoned dirt road with gates blocking the entrance and exit. The remnants of foundations and rock walls are all evidence that remain of this road’s past.

We have experienced this road in both the afternoon and night. The afternoon makes for a great scenic drive through the woods with a peaceful hike thereafter. The night...well that is a different story. When we arrived on site after a long and quit spooky drive through the woods we were greeted by a long dark dirt road (Downs Road). While walking the entire stretch we heard on multiple occasions what appeared to be screaming in the distance, as well as figures appearing ahead of us on the trail. It made for one scary night. So if you are up for a good scenic drive and day hike Downs Road in the afternoon is the place for you. If you are the more adventurous thrill seeking type, the night time is what it is all about.

Be mindful of Private Property! Do not walk across peoples lawns!

Banton Street

Banton Street nestled between Route 15 and the Quinnipiac River from the 1920's to the early 70's, at its peak it was home to over 36 homes, Now?... Population zero. Do to upstream development over the years river flooding became too much for this community, and in 1972 the state bought the remaining homes demolishing them to the ground. Now all that remains are empty grass covered lots and plant covered curb line with the remains of building foundations.

Today a majority of Banton Street is owned by the state of Connecticut and part of the Quinnipiac River State Park. Its abandoned streets can be walked today without fear of trespassing.

Old Staircase into river

Old Driveway

Curbline



Failed Christmas Tree Garden?

Fence marking former property line