Bridgeport city leaders break ground on new Bassick HS; concerns grow over pollution, flooding, busy streets
The $130 million project on the University of Bridgeport campus is expected to be a 204,000-square-foot state-of-the-art building that will also house Bridgeport Military Academy students.
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Five years after Harding got its new high school in Bridgeport, it's Bassick's turn.
Bridgeport city leaders Monday broke ground on the new Bassick High School.
"A high school that I think will not only be lead compliant, but I think will be everything that you can possibly think of for the enhanced educational opportunities for Bassick High School students going forward. We're excited about that," said Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim.
The $130 million project on the University of Bridgeport campus is expected to be a 204,000-square-foot state-of-the-art building that will also house Bridgeport Military Academy students.
"It gives and it symbolizes a new start for two schools to be able to come together and work to provide a quality education for children," said Bridgeport Public Schools Interim Superintendent Alyshia Perrin.
There are some concerns that people are voicing, like the pollution at nearby power plants, possible flooding from Long Island Sound and busing on busy streets in the neighborhood.
"Really just trying to figure out what were the plans previously on how to be able to move students safely and appropriately and really looking at what's the best fit for them," said Perrin.
The original Bassick High School was built in 1929 and is in much need of repair.
The new school will capitalize on the University of Bridgeport's athletic fields.
"It's built here for a reason. Sports fields are here already and those are going to be for Bassick High School students. State of the art," said Ganim.
Work has already begun on the new Bassick High School.
It's expected to open in two years.
"And look forward to the day we cut the ribbon on the new Bassick High School," said Ganim.
The city says the new high school will also have new trade programs, including advanced manufacturing and aeronautical tech.
