Bridgeport officials unveiled a new program Wednesday that they say will pave the way for a more diverse police force.

Mayor Bill Finch says the city is launching an aggressive recruitment campaign for those who seek to become police officers. He says this will be accomplished in part by having recruiters appear at local churches and events, where they can communicate with prospective officers in person.

Officials say currently, women and minorities make up 42 percent of the police force. They say they are strongly pushing for more women and minorities to join the force.

Anyone who would like to apply to be a Bridgeport police officer can do so by March 22. The written test will take place on April 11.