New Bullard-Havens Technical High School Set To Open In Bridgeport

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Gov. Ned Lamont and state and local officials Monday marked the opening of the new Bullard-Havens Technical High School in Bridgeport, a $199 million state-funded facility intended to train students for careers in 13 technical fields.

The 214,508-square-foot campus includes a three-story academic and trades building, a 12,291-square-foot maintenance garage, new athletic facilities, a field house, and security structures. Managed by the state Department of Administrative Services, the project meets Connecticut High Performance Building Standards and features a large geothermal well field, upgraded HVAC and lighting systems, and energy-recovery ventilation. The building is designed to be solar-ready, making it one of the state’s most energy-efficient school projects.

The school, maintenance garage, and security facilities are set to open Dec. 1. The athletic fields, field house, and ticket booth are expected to be finished in May 2027.

Gov. Ned Lamont said the school represents a significant investment in Bridgeport and the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System.

"This school represents exactly the kind of investment Connecticut needs to remain competitive and support the next generation of skilled workers," Lamont said during the ceremony. "Bullard-Havens students will learn in modern, industry-aligned labs and classrooms that match the workplaces they will enter after graduation. This project shows what is possible when state agencies, educators, industry partners, and labor all work toward a common goal."

CTECS Executive Director Alice Pritchard said the facility will give students access to modern training environments aligned with industry needs, and DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman praised the state’s construction team for completing the project on time and within budget.

Local officials also welcomed the opening. State Rep. Christopher Rosario, a Bridgeport Democrat, said the new campus "means opportunity" for students preparing for careers in Connecticut.

Students who spoke at the event said the new labs and classrooms resemble real-world workplaces.

"This new school feels like a place where we can truly grow," said Caeden Duncan, an 11th grade criminal justice student. "The spaces are professional, the technology is what we’ll actually use in the field, and it shows that the state believes in us."

Added Neveah Sanchez, a 10th grade plumbing student, "The new plumbing shop and labs are amazing. It feels like we’re learning in a real work environment, and it motivates us to push ourselves and be ready for our careers."

Principal Dr. Susan Foss said bringing all programs into one building will change how students and staff collaborate.

"Our new shops and labs reflect the true standards of the industries our students will enter," Foss said. "I’m proud to have played even a small part in making this long-awaited project a reality."

Construction was completed under a project labor agreement with Gilbane Building Company, the Fairfield County Building and Construction Trades Council, and the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters. JCJ Architecture designed the project, with Arcadis serving as construction administrator.

Monday’s event included remarks from state and local leaders, student performances, and a ribbon cutting. Officials also placed items into a time capsule that will be sealed on campus.