WICC The Voice of Connecticut

Norwalk could become the first city in Connecticut to give buses priority at traffic lights. The proposed system would automatically extend green lights or shorten red lights for approaching buses, helping keep them on schedule. City officials say the technology could improve transit reliability without causing significant delays for other drivers. We got more details from Fred Eshraghi, City Traffic Engineer and Charlie Baker, Senior Traffic Engineer for the city of Norwalk.

Residents in South Norwalk are pushing back against plans to transform Manresa Island into a commercial destination with restaurants, event space, and an outdoor amphitheater. Neighbors say the project could bring more than a million visitors a year, worsening traffic, straining emergency access, and overwhelming already congested roads. We spoke with one of those neighbors, Kim Tromba, about the concerns around the concept of Manresa Wilds.

To check out the Manresa Neighborhood petition: www.manresaneighborhood.com

Connecticut's tourism industry is booming. A new report says the state welcomed more than 72 million visitors in 2025, with tourism growth outpacing the national average. We spoke with Rachel Lenda, Tourism Director for the state, about the report’s findings.

For all things Connecticut tourism: ctvisit.com

This week, Connecticut's State Board of Education voted to send updated guidance on "bell-to-bell" restrictions that would keep phones and other personal devices off limits throughout the entire school day. But the other part of this that is important includes purposeful tech instruction which includes screen time limits. We spoke with Regina von Gootkin, founder of The Screen Smart Initiative, about the turning point this new guidance provides and how parents can have more control over screen time for their kids in school.

For more information: Screen Smart Initiative - Screen Smart Initiative

As online prediction markets continue to grow, Connecticut leaders are raising concerns about their risks. A new report from State Comptroller Sean Scanlon warns platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket can fuel gambling addiction, insider trading, and underage participation. We spoke with the comptroller to learn more.

To read the comptroller’s full report: https://osc.ct.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/August-3-2026-Economic-Update.pdf

Host Paul Pacelli wrapped up another week on "Connecticut Today" wondering if Democrats are doing permanent damage to their messaging in light of comments made - or not made - regarding a recent deadly traffic accident involving an illegal immigrant (00:35). Also joining us were former FBI New Jersey Special Agent-in-Charge Rich Frankel (08:02) and Southern Connecticut State University Political Science and Urban Affairs Professor Dr. Jonathan Wharton (15:28)

Host Paul Pacelli kicked off Thursday's "Connecticut Today" wondering about a new poll showing a creeping acceptance of socialism among many national Democratic Party voters (00:24). We also welcomed former state Senate GOP Leader John McKinney to the show for his weekly wrap-up (13:48)

On Wednesday's "Connecticut Today," host Paul Pacelli talked about Dr. Anthony Fauci's testimony earlier in the day to a Congressional Committee and whether there's still some lingering doubt among Americans about the origin of the COVID-19 Pandemic (00:31). We also welcomed ABC News Legal Analyst Royal Oakes (14:24), GOP state Rep. Gail Mastrofrancesco (18:06), and Hearst Connecticut Media's Dan Haar (22:43)

Host Paul Pacelli kicked off Tuesday's "Connecticut Today" wondering about growing local discontent over the use of automated license plate readers - ALPRs (00:31). We also welcomed ABC's Jordana Miller live from the Middle East (15:05), as well as Yankee Institute blogger Meghan Portfolio (18:28). She talked about the possibility of a state law regarding gasoline-powered leaf blowers

Host Paul Pacelli ushered in a new week on "Connecticut Today" wondering if an appearance the previous day by a high-ranking Democratic Socialists of America official was a harbinger of things to come in 2026 and 2028 (00:40). Shelton GOP state Sen. Jason Perillo dropped by to talk about efforts to get New York Gov. Kathy Hochul to drop her opposition to pipeline expansion (14:22). We also chatted with columnist and blogger Terry Cowgill about Maine's U.S. Senate race and Connecticut's growing costs for special education (21:07)

A popular Newtown restaurant is rebuilding after a fire destroyed its location over the weekend. JJ Stacks was completely lost in the early morning blaze; luckily no one was hurt. Firefighters kept the flames from spreading to neighboring businesses, and the owner says the restaurant will rebuild from the ground up. We spoke with Joe Attonito, owner of JJStacks in Newtown.

There will be a ceremony in Stratford to celebrate a major milestone in the cleanup of a former U.S. Army engine plant. It is one of the largest waterfront brownfield revitalization efforts currently underway in Connecticut. Connecticut-based Point Stratford Renewal Team, which owns the property, says today’s event marks the completion of the $74 million remediation of the tidal flats along the Housatonic River. We spoke with Peter Cabrera, a principal and Executive Vice President of Point Stratford Renewal and Stratford Mayor David Chess.

For more information on the project: https://www.pointstratford.com/

Connecticut is among the first states contributing health information to the new U.S. Disease Tracker. The online tool gives the public a snapshot of disease trends, vaccination rates, and other public health data across the country. We spoke with Dr. Fred Browne of Griffin Health about this and why Connecticut was selected to be one of only ten states to get involved.

For more information: https://usdiseasetracker.org/

Image Courtesy of Griffin Health System

From transforming blighted buildings to a specific housing project in Southport, we checked in with Renee Dobos of Connecticut Housing Partners to talk about the latest housing news in Connecticut.

For more information on the River Bend property: https://cthousingpartners.org/river-bend/

Image Credit: Eric Urbanowicz

Connecticut domestic violence advocates are warning that delays in federal funding could have serious consequences. Leaders say shelters and support programs may be forced to cut services, reduce staff, or limit help for survivors if funding doesn't arrive soon. We spoke with Mark Antonini President and Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Family Justice in Fairfield County. CFJ was one of five organizations at a roundtable this week about this concern.

For more information on CFJ: https://centerforfamilyjustice.org/

After an overwhelming show of community support, Easton Volunteer EMS is bringing back its annual fireworks show. But before we started talking, we learned the new EMS building is NOT actually being used! We learned why from Jon Arnold, Chief of Easton EMS.

The American Red Cross has declared a blood crisis, only the second in the organization's history. A blood crisis is the most extreme blood shortage, posing a concerning risk to patient care. We spoke with Richard Branigan, CEO of the American Red Cross Connecticut and Rhode Island Region. What led to the crisis and how can we turn things around sooner rather than later?

Book an appointment to give blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

(Additionally, those who come to give Aug. 1...

State lawmakers and local officials have pushed for pauses and moratoriums on automated traffic technology in Connecticut. The Department of Transportation has already snapped back saying they will not pause the program. We spoke with Josh Morgan from the DOT to discuss why.

Connecticut’s political debate—especially around energy policy—has become overly partisan and driven by political rhetoric rather than technical expertise. We spoke with our energy expert on the show, Bryson Hull, who has studied and worked in the energy field for 25 years, about what is at the core of the problem with our energy prices in the state. Hull is also the Deputy Northeast Director for the Consumer Energy Alliance.

Image Credit: Eric Urbanowicz

With the Trump administration recently removing TPS protections for thousands of Haitian and Syrian immigrants in CT, Immigration Attorney Dana Bucin spoke with Jon about the impact on the State.

Steven Clark was an employer highlighted in the Wall Street Journal; fired a 24-year-old employee twice—first the worker himself, then his mother, who called to argue for another chance. It’s part of a growing workplace trend: parents stepping into their adult children’s careers. We spoke with career strategist, Julie Bauke, about the article and got advice on being a supportive parent while staying hands off. 

The Deck podcast has released an episode on the 1994 Bridgeport cold case murder of 45-year-old Benjamin Rosario on the East Side of Bridgeport. The episode, called "Wild Card, Connecticut", was also featured in an episode of “Park City Confidential”, which is done by the Bridgeport Police Department. We spoke with Detective Jeffrey Holtz about the Rosario case.

To watch The Deck episode: Why Did the Search for a Serial Killer Lead Closer to Home?

To watch the Park City Confidential episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIejGjPAMQo

A new exclusive poll is revealing where Connecticut voters stand in the race for governor. The survey shows Governor Ned Lamont with a sizable lead over Republican challenger Ryan Fazio, while Lamont also leads Democratic challenger Josh Elliott in the upcoming primary matchup. We talked about key takeaways from the poll from Sacred Heart University political professor, Dr. Gary Rose.

With early voting for the August primary underway, House Republicans are warning a new state law could put Connecticut police officers at legal risk. They say the law creates confusion by restricting officers near polling locations, forcing chiefs statewide to seek legal guidance. We spoke to State Representative Greg Howard, who is also a Stonington police officer, about whether lawmakers rushed the measure without considering how it affects routine police duties.

The 12th annual Step Up for the Brave event is coming back on August 15th. The money raised all goes back to help local veterans and their families through Homes for the Brave. We spoke with Vince Santilli, CEO/Executive Director of Homes for the Brave, about Step Up for the Brave and why it’s such a special event.

To register for Step Up for the Brave: https://homesforthebrave.org/step-up-for-the-brave-2026-2/

Image Credit: Eric Urbanowicz

A drug investigation in Wilton is raising concerns about the illegal sale of banned substances. Police say they seized unlicensed cannabis products, kratom, and hundreds of nitrous oxide canisters during a raid at a smoke shop. One employee is facing multiple drug charges as investigators continue looking into unauthorized sales. We spoke with Lt. Anna Tornello from the Wilton Police Department for the latest.

The cost of a private college education in Connecticut is climbing. New figures show several schools now carry annual sticker prices approaching $100,000. Wesleyan tops the list at about $98,000, followed closely by Yale and Trinity. While many students receive financial aid, the published costs continue to rise statewide. We spoke with our education expert on the show, Fran Rabinowitz, who is also the Executive Director at the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents.

The Darien Little League team beat Waterford 7-4 yesterday to win the Connecticut state championship. They are heading to the Metro Regional for the first time since 1966 with a chance to go to Williamsport. We spoke with Rob Adams, local sports broadcaster and play-by-play announcer in Fairfield County, about the historic run for the team. 

A major rail upgrade is now underway on Connecticut's busy New Haven Line. Governor Ned Lamont announced construction has begun on the $1.6 billion TIME-1 project, which will modernize tracks, signals, and overhead wires between Stratford and Bridgeport. State officials say the improvements will eventually deliver faster, more frequent, and more reliable train service. But is the hype all it’s cracked up to be? We asked Jim Cameron of Talking Transportation who was quite skeptical of the project calling it a “déjà vu promise.”

To read Jim’s article: https://ctmirror.org/2026/08/02/connecticuts-1-6-billion-train-promise/

A Georgia man is facing kidnapping and other charges after police say he stole a running car with a two-year-old girl still inside. Officers tracked the vehicle using license plate readers and rescued the child within 15 minutes. Police say the toddler was unharmed and reunited with her family. It’s a good example of why license plate readers have value for public safety. We spoke with our law enforcement expert, Gary MacNamara, about the pro’s and con’s of license plate readers.

Image Credit: Nicole Perelli

How does Greek mythology relate to crime prevention? We looked at a few well-known characters and how they were already ahead of the curve when it comes to being safety empowered. 

"Chatfishing" is a modern dating trend highlighted on Good Morning America where people use AI chatbots to write, flirt, and communicate on dating apps. We spoke with Kristen Johnson of the Better Business Bureau serving Connecticut about the concerns of cat phishing scams heightened now that artificial intelligence is in the mix.

For more tips to avoid these scams: https://www.bbb.org/

Connecticut lawmakers are calling for a pause on new speed camera approvals. Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding and Senator Tony Hwang are asking the DOT to temporarily stop approving applications, citing concerns over the review process and data being used to justify camera locations. We got more clarity on this call to action from Senator Harding.

A search warrant in Enfield led to a disturbing discovery — police say they found firearms, narcotics, and more than 50 animals inside a home, including an illegally possessed capuchin monkey. Days later, authorities say a Hamden warehouse was home to dozens of illegal reptiles, including 46 venomous snakes. How common and how dangerous are animal hoarding situations? We asked Annie Hornish, Connecticut State Director of Humane World for Animals.

Bridgeport Fire Chief Lance Edwards is retiring. We had him on air one last time as Chief before signing off from the firefighting business.

IMAGE CREDIT: Melissa Sheketoff

Lawyers for the Waterbury man who says he was held captive by his stepmother for decades accuse Connecticut of withholding key Department of Children and Families records needed for his lawsuit against the state. We connected with Senator Jason Perillo who is the ranking senator for the Committee on Children and has been critical of DCF, the agency, not the workers, especially in cases like the one in Waterbury.

Beware of sunscreen! This seems to be one of the biggest topics of hysteria in America, especially on social media. But is any of it true? For the facts and fiction around the claims, we asked Dr. Fred Browne of Griffin Health. We also talked about a new push to protect people from intestinal illness as dozens of people in Connecticut, and thousands more across the nation, become ill from the cyclospora outbreak.

Image Courtesy of Griffin Health Systems

The Bridgeport School District currently has 50 vacancies and they want to hear from you! Michael Brosnan and Sharon Pivirotto from BPS spoke to Jon about how you can start your education career in the Park City!

Sign up for open interviews here: https://www.bridgeportedu.net/

Shattered Ice is an award-winning hockey drama about a small-town New England teenage hockey player’s attempt to navigate high school life after his best friend dies by suicide. The film is showing at the Sacred Heart University Community Theatre tonight. To share more about this powerful story about grief and resilience, we spoke with the producer and writer of the film, Jake Miskin.

To buy tickets to the film screening and panel discussion: https://www.shucommunitytheatre.org/event-details/shattered-ice-film-screening-and-panel

Image Credit: Nehoiden Street Films

A seasonal ban on gas-powered leaf blowers is now in effect in New Canaan after opponents failed to overturn the ordinance in a townwide referendum. For all things happening in New Canaan, we are excited to connect with Michael Dinan, editor and owner of the New Canaanite.

To read the full article: Referendum Fails; Summertime Ban on Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers Takes Effect | NewCanaanite.com