The city of Bridgeport, Connecticut is the most heavily populated city in the state. Located within Fairfield County, the city of Bridgeport currently supports a population of approximately 145,000, according to 2010 statistics. The city of Bridgeport makes up the core of the Greater Bridgeport area. The city is the 5th biggest city in New England and is part of the Greater New York City Combined Statistical Area. The city of Bridgeport ranks as the 41st largest urban area within the USA.
The city of Bridgeport was home circus-promoter P.T. Barnum, who also served a term as mayor of the town. He has built 3 houses within the city of Bridgeport and during the winters, houses his circus within town.
Other than parts of Black Rock and Brooklawn, which were originally part of the Fairfield Town, Bridgeport was initially a member of the Stratford Township. Somewhere between 1639 and 1665, the very first English settlement on the west bank of the mouth of the Pequonnock River was established. This settlement was called Pequonnock. Sometime prior to the year 1777, the village was renamed Newfield. Since more people settled towards the West and further inland, the area officially became known as Stratfield in the year 1701. It is speculated that this name emerged from its spot between the existing townships of Fairfield and Stratford.
The city of Bridgeport was a center of privateering throughout the American Revolution. In 1800, the village of Newfield was chartered as a borough of Bridgeport. The town of Bridgeport and parts of Stratfield became incorporated in the year 1821. In 1836, Bridgeport was finally chartered as a city.
Bridgeport is home to the Frisbie Pie Company. Some argue that due to this, the city is in fact the birthplace of the Frisbee. The first Subway Restaurant was opened in the North End part of the city in the year 1965.
Manufacturing and trade has long been the core of Bridgeport's economy, however service-producing sectors, particularly business and health services have also become significant factors for the local economy. Bridgeport is trying to expand its manufacturing sector into the global marketplace. Also, Bridgeport is regarded as one of the most famous financial centers within New England.
Production in the city of Bridgeport includes various goods, like for example machine tools, machinery, electrical supplies, fabricated metals, and transportation equipment. The port in the city of Bridgeport helps with the region's wholesale and retail trade. The city of Bridgeport is also conveniently located at the crossroads of major highways as well as being a prominent railroad center. There are several Fortune 500 Companies situated in the county.
Many new job opportunities arise for people through the Bridgeport Economic Resource Center. The majority of the new jobs occur in restaurant and retail companies. The center also focuses with businesses to make use of different workforce development programs. Many services are provided by the Bridgeport Regional Business Council including education, training programs, technical and management support and loan packaging assistance. In addition, the Connecticut Department of Labor provides employment grants and on the job training assistance.