With a new traffic pattern in place along Johnson Avenue thanks to a new Johnson Elementary School parking lot and what’s expected to be a surge of vehicles for the first day of school Monday, Bridgeport Police Chief John Walker has a message for those driving – be patient.

 

“On the first day and usually through the first week there’s larger traffic volume and that leads to larger congestion,” said Walker. “We ask people to consider leaving a little early in the morning and we definitely ask for their patience.”

 

Walker said community members can expect an increased police presence this coming week along Johnson Avenue all the way through Philadelphia Avenue. The increase will be for the three schools situated along Johnson as well as Simpson Elementary.

 

“We always have officers on patrol in the school zones in the morning and in the evening, particularly when school begins and finishes,” said Walker. “You will definitely notice more of a presence the first week of school.”

 

Like many, Walker is aware of the added congestion that was created last year due to the new Johnson Elementary School and an issue with limited parking. With the new parking lot now in place at JES and a new traffic pattern, he’s hopeful things will get smoother as the year goes on.

 

“We’re aware of the new traffic pattern and changes that have been set up with input from our staff and the Johnson administration. We’ll make modifications if needed as we’ll be monitoring how things progress on that front,” said Walker.

 

Walker added that his officers also patrol the area around Heritage Christian School, the city’s only private institution. However, the numbers aren’t nearly as great due to a vastly smaller student population and a significant decrease in congestion issues.

 

“I’m encouraging people to be mindful of the speed limit and to be aware of the buses dropping of children. I’d ask that not just for our schools, but all schools in any jurisdiction,” said Walker. “Everyone really needs to make sure the know the traffic laws and be safe.”

 

Click HERE for the map showing the new Johnson Elementary School parking and traffic flow. Click HERE for a written description. Both map and description provided by the Johnson Elementary School administration.

 

Editor's Note: Top photo shows Bridgeport Police Chief John Walker, while PRO Jamie Hamrick is shown directing traffic below.