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Resident proposes expanded economic‑revitalization committee to steer Bridgeport redevelopment
Summary
A resident urged council to expand the Small Business and Economic Development Committee into a dedicated economic revitalization and investment committee focused on the riverfront, industrial park and business attraction; council members said they would discuss the idea and may place it on the next agenda.
Emilio Buitrago, a Bridgeport resident, used public comment at the April 8 council meeting to propose creating a dedicated economic‑revitalization and investment committee or expanding the existing Small Business and Economic Development Committee to take a more strategic role in attracting investment to the borough.
Buitrago told council that Bridgeport has transit access, a riverfront and an industrial park with underused properties that could be repurposed for cafes, shops, co‑working spaces and creative hubs. He said the borough already has a planning framework called "Bridgeport 2040" and asked council to establish a committee charged with pursuing funding opportunities, business incentives and redevelopment partnerships.
Council members responded favorably in the meeting record. Council members said they would discuss Buitrago’s proposal and that it could be advertised for a vote at the next meeting if council directs that step. A council member suggested ensuring the committee includes engaged residents and business owners beyond councilmembers to increase community participation.
The transcript indicates council and staff support further study; no formal vote or action creating a new committee was taken at the April 8 meeting.
