Bridgeport

Bridgeport Public Schools Join Connecticut’s Largest Cities in Call for Increased State Education Funding 

BRIDGEPORT, CT – January 15, 2025– Bridgeport Public Schools joined forces with mayors and superintendents from Connecticut's five largest cities – Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, and Waterbury – to urgently call on Governor Lamont and state lawmakers to increase state education funding for all students and to adequately and equitably support Connecticut's educational system during the 2025 legislative session. Facing significant financial challenges, the district remains steadfast in its commitment to providing high-quality education and ensuring that every student has the resources needed to succeed.  Facing a $39 million budget deficit, the Bridgeport Public Schools district remains deeply committed to safeguarding students from any negative effects. The district continues to prioritize student success and well-being, working diligently to uphold…

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Untimely Death

Earlier today, the Bridgeport Emergency Communications Center was alerted by a judicial marshal regarding former city assistant fire chief Harold Clarke’s failure to appear in court this morning. Bridgeport Police responded to Clarke's last known GPS location, where they discovered a tragic, untimely death. In November, a six-person jury convicted Clarke on two counts of second-degree sexual assault. He faced a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years for these charges. Authorities have confirmed that this is an ongoing investigation. I send my condolences to Harold Clarke’s family. I'm deeply sorry for your loss, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. I’m wishing you comfort and peace during this time of…

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Mayor Ganim Announces the City of Bridgeport to Join National Program to Advance Park Equity

Bridgeport, CT – Bridgeport has been selected as one of 7 cities to participate in Trust for Public Land’s 10-Minute Walk® Park Equity Accelerator, a national initiative committed to increasing access to high-quality parks in communities across the U.S. As part of the Accelerator, Bridgeport and New Haven will work closely with Trust for Public Land (TPL) to work towards ensuring every resident has access to a park or green space within a 10-minute walk from home. This partnership reflects Bridgeport’s and New Haven’s commitments to creating equitable and accessible green spaces that enhance quality of life for all. “As the Park City, we are excited to participate in this opportunity with Trust for Public Land,” stated Mayor Ganim. “Trust for Public…

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Bridgeport Public Schools Takes Proactive Steps with Launch of Special Education Task Force to Strengthen Student Support 

Recognizing the pressing challenges within the Special Education (SPED) department, Bridgeport Public Schools has taken proactive steps by launching a Special Education Task Force. This initiative underscores the district’s deep understanding of existing issues and its commitment to ensuring all students receive the high-quality support and education they deserve. The task force was formed to make an in-depth assessment of current practices, identify areas for meaningful improvement, and implement innovative solutions. By prioritizing this initiative, the district is reaffirming its dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment where every student can thrive.  “We fully acknowledge the concerns surrounding our Special Education services and are taking decisive action,” said Dr. Royce Avery, Interim Superintendent. “As a father of a…

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Bridgeport Police Issue Public Safety Alert on Vehicle Break-Ins

https://youtu.be/weef_qpcxGs Bridgeport, CT – The Bridgeport Police Department has issued a public service announcement following a surge in vehicle break-ins across the city. Lt. Stacey Lyons of the Bridgeport Police Department shared valuable tips to help residents safeguard their vehicles and belongings: Park in Well-Lit Areas: Criminals are less likely to target vehicles parked under streetlights or in brightly lit areas. Activate Vehicle Alarms: If your car has an alarm, ensure it is activated whenever you park. Choose Locations with Cameras: Parking near surveillance cameras can deter potential thieves. Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Do not leave items like laptops, cell phones, or GPS devices visible in your vehicle. Bring these items inside your home to avoid temptation. Use Indoor…

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Bridgeport Police Investigating Homicide on Hewitt Street

Bridgeport, CT – The Bridgeport Police Department is investigating the fatal shooting of Derek Martin, 48, of 197 Hewitt Street, Bridgeport, following a call to the scene on January 9, 2025. At approximately 5:05 PM, officers responded to a report of a shooting at the residence. Upon arrival, they discovered Martin suffering from gunshot wounds to the torso at the front of the multi-family home. Medics transported him to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after. Patrol officers secured the area, and the Detective Bureau Homicide Squad, accompanied by the Forensic Identification Unit, has taken over the investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that the incident began inside the residence and extended to the front porch. Detectives have…

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Mayor Ganim Announces Funding for Congress Street Bridge Replacement

Bridgeport, CT –Mayor Ganim announced that the City of Bridgeport received $24.6 million for the replacement of the Congress Street Bridge, located in the downtown area of the City. Funding for this project was received by the U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant, with the selection process made possible by Congressman Jim Himes, Senator Richard Blumenthal, and Senator Chris Murphy. “I want to thank Congressman Jim Himes, Senator Chris Murphy, and Senator Richard Blumenthal for their steadfast advocacy to secure final funding for this project,” stated Mayor Ganim. “After thirty years, the Congress Street Bridge will finally reconnect the bustling East Side and Downtown neighborhoods and will increase public…

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