Dear neighbors and supporters,

Thank you to everyone who attended the South End NRZ meeting last night. The turnout was exceptional—standing room only, with people spilling into the entry hall. That level of participation clearly demonstrated that the Harbor Station site and smokestack matter to the community.

At the meeting, residents shared thoughtful perspectives on what the stack represents and how it could fit into Bridgeport’s future. The developers discussed the real constraints they face around remediation, liability, and site planning. They also shared important timing information: demolition of the smokestack has been pushed back to late 2026 or early 2027. This additional time materially improves the opportunity to build a serious, evidence-based case for preservation or adaptive reuse.

Today, we also met with the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. The $22.5M state grant is structured for above-grade demolition and abatement. There may be flexibility in how funds are used within that scope, depending on contractual details, meaning it is potentially feasible for the developer to keep the smokestack while working under the grant. Structural testing, hazardous materials abatement, and engineering assessments still need to occur, and those results will strongly influence what is technically viable - these will likely occur in the coming months as part of the abatement process, as the stack cannot be imploded before all toxic material is removed from it.

The takeaway: preserving the smokestack is achievable only with credible engineering data, a realistic funding or partnership model, and a clear articulation of economic and community value. The extended timeline gives us a real window to develop that case!

While we will continue to provide updates here, if you want to stay involved, please email bpt.advocacy@gmail.com with:
• Your name  
• Your town or neighborhood  
• Anything you’d like to share (why the stack matters to you, what makes this area special, your background or profession)

This will help us maintain a roster of engaged residents and share updates and opportunities to participate as new information becomes available.

Thank you again for your engagement.

Best regards,  
Harrison Gordon