Bridgeport Public Schools Prepares Plans For Improving Facilities

News release from Bridgeport Public Schools:

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Bridgeport Public Schools (BPS) is providing an update on the progress of its Facilities Master Plan, a comprehensive long-term planning framework that will guide the district’s capital investments and facility improvements for the next decade and beyond. This updated plan is crucial for modernizing BPS facilities, addressing compliance challenges, and aligning schools with current and future enrollment needs.

The Facilities Master Plan is driven by the findings of a recent, month-long facilities study, which revealed that the city’s aging school buildings will require up to $709 million in repairs and infrastructure upgrades over the next decade. The study is vital in helping the school board develop a 10-year roadmap for the district’s 37 buildings, including potentially closing some schools and replacing dilapidated structures.

Key Elements of the Master Plan:

• Community Engagement: BPS has used ThoughtExchange and surveys to gather feedback from community members, parents, and educators, ensuring that the Master Plan reflects the needs of the community.
• Facility Assessments: A detailed review of each building, identifying major corrective actions such as repairs, replacements, and upgrades.
• Modernization & Compliance: Upgrading facilities to meet current and future compliance standards while ensuring safety and functionality.
• Right-Sizing: Aligning school facilities with projected enrollment numbers and community needs, including potential consolidations and new construction.
• Capital Investment Strategy: Developing a sustainable plan to fund renovations and new school construction projects.

According to the study, 17 of the district’s 30 K-8 schools are currently operating under capacity, with enrollment expected to decline by approximately 400 students over the next decade. The district is projected to need between $560 million and $590 million in repairs over the next five years, with an additional $113 million to $119 million in upgrades over the following five years.

Upcoming Community Forums:

• Virtual Meeting:
• February 27, 2025 – Watch on YouTube
• March 4, 2025 – Watch Live on YouTube
• In-Person Meetings:
• March 31, 2025 – Harding High School
• April 2, 2025 – Central High School
• April 3, 2025 – Bassick High School

View the BPS Master Plan: BPS Master Plan PDF