State and local leaders held a conference in Bridgeport to announce a $10 million grant that aims to bring an exciting transformation to the South End.

Officials say the money is earmarked for upgrading the Park Avenue corridor.

The area connects the University of Bridgeport and New Bassick High School to the rest of the city.

Leaders at the conference said the project will create high quality jobs while enhancing the safety and appearance of one of the city’s three main traffic arteries.

The project is underway, according to officials.