Driving Cost from Cheshire, Connecticut to Westport, Connecticut

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between Cheshire, Connecticut and Westport, Connecticut

Introduction

One of the factors that often affects our decision-making when planning a trip is the cost. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it's essential to consider the expense of fuel when determining the best route between destinations. In this article, we will explore the various options for traveling from Cheshire, Connecticut to Westport, Connecticut, highlighting the cost and distance of each route. By the end, we will recommend the most cost-effective route based on current gas prices.

Route Options

There are several routes to choose from when traveling from Cheshire to Westport. Here, we will discuss three main options: the Merritt Parkway, the Wilbur Cross Parkway, and the mix of I-91 and I-95.

Merritt Parkway

The Merritt Parkway, designated as Route 15, is a scenic and historic route that runs along the southwestern region of Connecticut. Although it may not always be the fastest option, taking this route can provide a more relaxed driving experience, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

The distance from Cheshire to Westport using the Merritt Parkway is approximately 32 miles. Since it is a toll road, drivers must take into account the cost of tolls. As of the latest update, the toll cost for a car is $1.25 at each toll plaza on the Merritt Parkway, totaling $2.50 for the entire trip.

Wilbur Cross Parkway

Another route option is the Wilbur Cross Parkway, also known as the Wilbur Cross/Merritt Parkway Connector (Route 15 S). This route connects Cheshire to the Merritt Parkway in Trumbull, ensuring a seamless transition between highways and minimizing the time spent on local roads.

From Cheshire to Westport, taking the Wilbur Cross Parkway and Merritt Parkway combination makes the total distance approximately 43 miles. Similar to the Merritt Parkway, this route includes tolls, with a cost of $1.25 at each toll plaza on the Merritt Parkway, resulting in a total toll expense of $2.50.

I-91 and I-95 Mix

The third route option involves a mix of Interstates 91 and 95. This route provides a more direct path from Cheshire to Westport, bypassing the Merritt Parkway entirely. It is generally the fastest route, but it is worth noting that it may have more traffic congestion, particularly during peak travel times.

The total distance from Cheshire to Westport when taking the I-91 and I-95 mix is approximately 55 miles. Unlike the previous two options, this route does not include any tolls. However, it's important to consider the average gas mileage of your vehicle, as the distance covered is slightly longer.

Fuel Cost Calculation

To determine the most cost-effective route, we need to calculate the fuel cost based on the current gas prices in Connecticut. As of the latest update, the average gas price in the state is $2.85 per gallon. It is important to note that gas prices can vary, so it's essential to check the latest prices before embarking on your trip.

To estimate the fuel cost, we need to consider the average fuel efficiency of a vehicle. Assuming a moderate efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg), we can calculate the number of gallons required for each route and multiply it by the gas price.

Let's calculate the fuel cost for each route using the given assumptions:

  1. Merritt Parkway (32 miles):

    • Gallons required: 32 miles / 25 mpg = 1.28 gallons
    • Fuel cost: 1.28 gallons * $2.85 per gallon = $3.65

  2. Wilbur Cross Parkway and Merritt Parkway combined (43 miles):

    • Gallons required: 43 miles / 25 mpg = 1.72 gallons
    • Fuel cost: 1.72 gallons * $2.85 per gallon = $4.91

  3. I-91 and I-95 Mix (55 miles):

    • Gallons required: 55 miles / 25 mpg = 2.2 gallons
    • Fuel cost: 2.2 gallons * $2.85 per gallon = $6.27

Based on the calculations above, the Merritt Parkway has the lowest fuel cost with a total expense of $3.65. Not only is it the most economical choice, but it also provides a more scenic and enjoyable driving experience. While the other routes may be faster, the cost savings and the opportunity to appreciate the beautiful surroundings make the Merritt Parkway a highly recommended option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip from Cheshire, Connecticut to Westport, Connecticut, it is essential to consider the cost of fuel, which can significantly impact your overall expenses. In this article, we explored the three main route options: the Merritt Parkway, the Wilbur Cross Parkway, and the mix of I-91 and I-95. By calculating the fuel cost for each route based on current gas prices, we determined that the Merritt Parkway is the most cost-effective choice, with a fuel expense of $3.65. With a distance of approximately 32 miles, this route offers both savings and a pleasant driving experience.