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 sorrow stated Mayor Ganim.
On behalf of the Bridgeport Police Department, we send our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Harold Clarke stated Chief Porter.
My condolences to the family and friends of Harold Clarke Sr. Chief Clarke spent 34 ½ years with the Bridgeport Fire Department. Losing a loved one is never easy for the family and friends left behind but as time goes on you will remember the joy that he brought into your lives stated Fire Chief Lance Edwards.
Report of a structure fire at Summerfield Ave near Clermont Street in Bridgeport. Firefighters have knocked down the fire and are currently checking for extensions.
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 Land and the City of Bridgeport have a long-standing relationship advancing new park development within the city and implementing the waterfront pathway. We look forward to continuing this partnership and participating in the Park Equity Accelerator.”
Since its launch in 2017, thanks to support from The JPB Foundation, TPL’s 10-Minute Walk® program has partnered with more than 300 mayors and city leaders across 50 states and Washington, D.C., helping cities to address critical issues such as public health, climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and economic development through parks. The Accelerator specifically provides tailored support to help cities close the park equity gap through changes to policies and practices that will improve access to quality green spaces, especially in underserved neighborhoods.
Through the Park Equity Accelerator, Bridgeport will receive customized technical support to create a standardized framework for assessing the quality, amenities, and equity of the City’s parks, guiding priority improvements and future developments. New Haven will receive support to identify and develop tailored policies and practices to improve the Parks and Recreation Department’s ability to invest in park maintenance, engagement, and improvements. These efforts will also enhance funding processes by evaluating current park conditions, promoting inclusivity for diverse user groups, and addressing climate challenges such as air quality, stormwater management, and extreme heat. This initiative aims to meet Bridgeport and New Haven’s unique challenges as coastal cities, including chronic flooding and the urgent need for resiliency improvements. Other cities selected for this year’s Accelerator include Birmingham, AL; Tacoma, WA; and Chicago, IL, which will join Bridgeport and New Haven in the mission to drive park equity forward nationwide.
“Our park systems are at the heart of our Connecticut cities, but we know there is more work to be done to ensure everyone has access to safe and welcoming green spaces,” said Walker Holmes, Mid-Atlantic VP And Connecticut State Director. “The support and expertise provided by the Accelerator will allow us to address specific needs, improve access to parks, and bring lasting benefits to Bridgeport and New Haven residents.”
The Park Equity Accelerator also amplifies lessons learned for cities nationwide.
“Park equity challenges can be quite similar across communities,” said Bianca Clarke, Parks Initiative Lead and Senior Director of the 10-Minute Walk® Program. “Our goal is to share solutions and insights from pioneering cities like Bridgeport and New Haven to help other communities across the U.S. break down barriers to park access. This collaborative approach can create a ripple effect, supporting more cities in achieving equitable, high-quality parks for all.”
About Trust for Public Land
Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors. As a leader in equitable access to the outdoors, TPL works with communities to create parks and protect public land where they are needed most. Since 1972, TPL has protected more than 4 million acres of public land, created more than 5,420 parks, trails, schoolyards, and iconic outdoor places, and raised $110 billion in public funding for parks and public lands, and connected nearly 9.7 million people to the outdoors. To learn more, visit tpl.org
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 daughter who is deaf, I understand firsthand the importance of ensuring every child has access to the support they need. This issue is deeply personal to me, and I am fully committed to prioritizing and strengthening our Special Education program to better serve our students and families.”
Key Focus Areas and Goals:
Strengthening Public Education: Fostering collaboration among educators, administrators, and community members to better serve students with disabilities and bilingual learners.
Data-Driven Improvement: Utilizing findings from previous evaluations to enhance assessment methods and special education services.
Tailored Solutions: Advancing plans for an in-district specialized facility to reduce reliance on out-of-district placements and providing personalized support.
Capacity Building: Expanding professional development for educators and parents to improve understanding of student needs while applying special education strategies.
Community Engagement: Building trust and encouraging involvement through transparent communication, parent engagement, and advocacy initiatives.
Next Steps:
The task force will meet regularly—initially with increased frequency—to quickly address challenges and create a comprehensive action plan. Community feedback will be integral, with ongoing updates and forums planned to ensure transparency and inclusive participation.
“This initiative reflects our promise to take meaningful, collaborative action,” said Dr. Royce Avery, Interim Superintendent. “By working together, we can create impactful solutions that support our students and families.”
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 Parking When Possible: Whenever feasible, park your vehicle inside a garage or secure location.
If your vehicle has been broken into, you are urged to report the incident to the Bridgeport Police Department dispatch at (203) 576-7671. For general inquiries or further safety advice, contact the department at (203) 581-5100.
Lt. Lyons emphasized the department’s commitment to addressing these crimes:
“The Bridgeport Police Department is doing everything we can to keep your property safe. If you have video footage or information regarding these incidents, please share it with us. Your cooperation is vital to our efforts.”
The department reminds residents that any video evidence or additional details about these crimes can significantly aid in their investigations.
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 developed strong leads and believe Martin knew his attacker.
The investigation is ongoing, with detectives canvassing the area and seeking potential witnesses. Hewitt Street remains closed between Connecticut Avenue and Hewitt Court as authorities continue their work.
The Bridgeport Police Department extends its condolences to Martin’s family and friends. Anyone with information about the case is urged to contact Detective Thomas Harper at 203-581-5239 or the Bridgeport Police Tips line at 203-576-TIPS.
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 safety response times. The City of Bridgeport is prepared to get to work and ensure this project is completed expeditiously.”
The RAISE program allows project sponsors, including state and local governments, to pursue multi-modal and multi-jurisdictional projects that are more difficult to fund through other grant programs. RAISE grants are awarded to eligible surface transportation projects that will have a significant local or regional impact. The total federal funding for the Congress Street Bridge replacement is now brought to $26.9 million with the RAISE grant included in that total.
