Strategies and Tools for Revitalizing Bridgeport, CT

Groundwork Bridgeport is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to advance the regeneration of Bridgeport, Connecticut through placemaking activities centered on greenscapes and youth development. Once a regional manufacturing center, Bridgeport struggles to shed its image as a post-industrial city and seeks to develop a new identity that can attract visitors and businesses. Groundwork Bridgeport engaged the Capstone team to develop strategies that would allow this small organization—limited in capacity but with extensive inroads in the community—to expand its role in Bridgeport’s revitalization. The team reviewed Bridgeport’s comprehensive plan, analyzed existing data, conducted fieldwork, and interviewed stakeholders to develop a “placemaking toolbox,” suggesting feasible projects for Groundwork Bridgeport to undertake that would engage the community and enliven the use of physical spaces around the city.