What Happened?
The development of the largest urban agriculture center in Connecticut has been launched, expected to produce 800,000 tons of fresh produce annually for local residents, while creating 40 new jobs in the green sector. The hydroponic farm project has received a $1 million grant from the state as well as a $700,000 revolving loan from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The Goal
As more cities are developing green strategies to reduce energy consumption, increase access to renewable energy sources and decrease their carbon footprint, more urban agriculture initiatives are proving successful in municipalities nationwide. In Bridgeport, Connecticut, the city has created a BGreen 2020 sustainability plan that outlines strategic developments and programs that invest in green business and technology to create a cleaner future for residents.
With the construction of the hydroponic farm project, Bridgeport will have access to space to grow crops and train members of the community on how to reduce emissions and optimize green technology. The 80,000-square-foot agriculture center will contain computer controlled greenhouses to efficiently increase resident access to local fresh food sources. The urban agriculture center will be developed on vacant brownfields to make the best use of idle space.
The project demonstrates a collaboration on many levels, with a private employer teaming up with local, state and federal organizations to fund, strategize and implement sustainable programs. By adding fresh food and new jobs to the area, local residents should enjoy an improvement in quality of life and an uptick in economic activity.
BEfficient
Bridgeport’s BGreen 2020 plan aims to tackle a number of environmental concerns aside from urban agriculture. The strategy includes the development of committees to:
- Implement public transit planning to reduce private automobile dependence/use
- Develop energy efficient building construction and retrofitting plans to cut down on carbon emissions
- Enhance and build upon recycling and water usage programs to optimize resources and green space
- Improve upon the waste management system to lower energy use and protect residents
- Create more green jobs and opportunities in the city to attract eco-friendly businesses
- Educate the public on green initiatives and market each program to residents and businesses
The 10-year strategy aims to position Bridgeport as a leading municipality in the development of a green economy, reduction of energy consumption and implementation of long-term sustainable solutions.
Get The Funding
Bridgeport’s urban agriculture center was made possible through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s revolving loan fund grant program. For other cities looking to acquire federal assistance for environmental cleanup activities at brownfield sites or other land revitalization strategies, a revolving program may be ideal. Through this program, the recipient city or organization has a certain period of time to repay the loans from the federal agency and then have the same amount re-lent back to the borrowers. The on-going source of capital allows for cities to make major changes in operations and development, ensuring the program is not only launched successfully but properly maintained for long-term benefits.
Cut Out The Waste
Gov1 has monitored several urban farming efforts including some made possible through regulatory changes and others launched to turn around local economies.