Bridgeport Correctional Center – Bridgeport, CT

General Overview

The Bridgeport Correctional Center (BCC) is a high-security (Level 4) state correctional facility operated by the Connecticut Department of Correction. Located at 1106 North Avenue, it serves primarily as a jail for pretrial individuals awaiting arraignment or trial in the Superior Courts of Ansonia, Derby, Milford, Bridgeport, Danbury, Norwalk, and Stamford. It also houses a population of sentenced offenders. Opened in 1958, the facility has undergone various expansions, including the construction of the ”New Center” in 1974 and subsequent housing units. It provides a range of inmate programs including addiction services, educational courses, and religious services to facilitate rehabilitation and reentry.

Visitation Policy

Visitation at the Bridgeport Correctional Center is strictly controlled and operated on a schedule by appointment only. Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visiting list. Key rules include:

• Appointments: All social visits must be scheduled in advance through the online portal (accessible via the CT DOC website).
• Video Visitation: Remote video visits are available via Securus Technologies for friends and family who cannot travel to the facility.
• Identification: A valid government-issued photo ID is required for all adults.
• Schedule: Visiting hours vary by housing unit (e.g., Madison Unit, Memorial Unit, North Wing) and are subject to change. Wednesdays are often reserved for administrative purposes with no social visits.

Inmate Accounts

Visitors cannot give cash directly to inmates. Funds for commissary and telephone accounts must be deposited through approved channels. The facility utilizes Securus/JPay for electronic deposits (online or via mobile app). Money orders can also be mailed to the centralized inmate trust fund address in Wethersfield, CT, following specific labeling instructions (Inmate Name and ID Number).

Security and Dress Code

Strict security protocols are enforced. All visitors are subject to search and metal detector screening. Prohibited items include cell phones, smartwatches, cameras, weapons, drugs, and tobacco products. A strict dress code is applied: no revealing clothing, no camouflage, no orange or khaki colors (which resemble inmate uniforms), and no hooded sweatshirts. Failure to adhere to these rules will result in the denial of the visit.