Brownfields redevelopment is an example of smart economics and smart growth. These site assessments are important steps towards reuse of these properties. The assessments, which are scheduled to begin by early summer, generally take several months to complete. EPA-New England's Brownfields program has helped communities restore and develop dozens of contaminated urban properties across New England, resulting in the creation of thousands of jobs and generating millions of dollars in income and tax revenue. In Connecticut, EPA funded a site evaluation of the former Jenkins Valve property in Bridgeport.
Future plans call for demolition of the existing building and expanding the adjacent park.
The downtown is filled with old, abandoned mills. Future use includes plans for a marine science school and open space.