Pickleball at The Bridge: Bridgeport Exempted Village School District has disclosed plans for a $13.8 million addition called “The Bridge” to transform the local education and community landscape. The 28,500-square-foot facility will serve educational, workforce development, and healthcare needs for students and the wider community.
Public Input and Plans for The Bridge
At a series of public meetings, Superintendent Brent Ripley shared the district’s vision for the new facility. The project will be located in front of the elementary school and is expected to be two stories high, featuring over 40 community parking spaces. It will also include amenities like playgrounds, a basketball court, and possibly more, depending on future funding.
Ripley emphasized safety as a key consideration in the design, noting features like controlled entrances and exits that separate students and adults. He expressed pride in the project’s progress and the district’s careful use of funding.
Educational and Workforce Development Benefits
The Bridge aims to offer more educational opportunities, particularly in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). It will also provide College Credit Plus courses and a student-run coffee bar.
The district plans to offer workforce credentials for high school seniors, allowing them to step directly into the workforce or pursue higher education after graduation.
The facility will also house the OhioRISE program, which connects children and families to needed resources. Health services, including discounted medical and dental care, will be provided through a partnership with Ohio Hills Health Centers.
Community and Health Services
The Bridge will support a range of community services, including childcare provided by Experience Church, wellness programs like Silver Sneakers, and spaces for activities such as pickleball and a golf simulator.
The district also hopes to facilitate collaboration between community organizations like the Rotary Club and student clubs.
Projected Completion
Groundbreaking for The Bridge is scheduled for May 28, with the project expected to be completed by December 31, 2026.
If additional Appalachian Regional Commission funding is secured, the facility will offer even more workforce training opportunities.
News in Brief: Pickleball at The Bridge
The Bridge, a $13.8 million addition to Bridgeport Exempted Village School District, will offer educational, workforce, and health services to the community. Scheduled to open in 2026, it will provide a wide range of programs, including workforce credentialing, medical care, and fitness opportunities.
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