The Bridgeport school community along Johnson Avenue knows all about the use of the track facility at Wayne Jamison Field. It is a highly utilized space, along with the football and soccer field, for activities for school children as well – particularly those at Johnson Elementary School.

 

Because the facility is being used by school children, Bridgeport Prevention Resource Officer (PRO) Jamie Hamrick of the Bridgeport Police Department wants people to know the facility is off limits to the public whenever school is in session. It is off limits between the hours of 8 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

 

Just in case no one that has been going there during those times has noticed, there is now signs posted at the two entry points saying the facility is not open during that time frame.

 

“It’s off limits and we have two signs posted, one at the school end of the gate and one on the footbridge (from City Park), which are the only two access points,” said Hamrick. “Based on the time, if you’re an early-morning walker you are welcome to use the track before that time or just after that time in the afternoon and the evening access, minus an event, is still open as well.”

 

Hamrick said it is not a matter of stifling public use of a heavily used facility. It is a matter of assuring a safe environment for students, particularly those at Johnson Elementary School.

 

“We have kids as young as age four using the track and you cannot have an environment where anyone can just show up. We know most people are just there for exercise or to sit and relax, but we have had some questionable characters sitting in the bleachers and watching kids,” said Hamrick. “That’s unacceptable.”

 

That led to Johnson Elementary School Principal Vicki Huffman making the move to purchase the signs. Working in conjunction with Hamrick, the signs were put in place last week. She echoed Hamrick on why it needs to happen and be enforced.

 

“Our main goal is the safety of our kids. While are just thinking about getting out for a walk, it is our outdoor learning space and learning environment,” said Huffman. “We can’t have adults walking around, most of the time having no idea who they are, good intentions or not.”

 

Hamrick said teachers have in the past “politely asked” individuals to leave. She said it largely goes ignored, and now that is going to change.

 

“We like involving our parents and we have encouraged organized visits in the past, but we can’t do that this time due to COVID. We also can’t have adult hanging around in the school learning area,” said Huffman. “It is a distraction, particularly to the teachers who have to be cautions as what adults may be doing. You don’t know if there is a custody issue, or other issues, we’re unaware of, but this will eliminate those concerns.”

 

Hamrick said she will be addressing anyone not following guidelines. Her presence at the schools on Johnson Avenue will make it easy for her to respond.

 

Editor's Note: Johnson Elementary Principal Vicki Huffman is shown above at the main entrance showing the new sign that is up, while the bottom photo shows the signs located at the foot bridge from City Park.