BRIDGEPORT, CT — Bridgeport has issued a Request for Proposals for Total Mortgage Arena, launching a search for a partner to enter a long-term development and operating agreement for the downtown venue. Total Mortgage Arena is losing its long-time tenant, the Bridgeport Islanders minor league hockey team, this spring. The team is moving to Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
According to the city, the new lease agreement would run for at least 10 years and is intended to help shape the next phase of downtown Bridgeport. The city is partnering with the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development on the RFP.
The city is seeking proposals that could either maintain the arena's sports and entertainment role or introduce a different concept for the facility. According to the announcement, the selection committee will prioritize the "highest and best use" of the arena and look for a partner that can keep it active on a regular, year-round basis while serving as a driver for the local economy and nearby restaurants and businesses.
"We are looking for a partner with a vision for how this venue can contribute to Bridgeport’s identity as the 'Arts and Entertainment Capital of Connecticut'," said Mayor Joe Ganim in a statement. "The goal is to create a year-round destination that keeps our downtown vibrant 365 days a year."
City officials described the arena as a key piece of Bridgeport's transit and entertainment network. The venue sits along the Interstate 95 corridor at the southern edge of downtown and connects by skywalk to the Bridgeport Train Station, which serves Metro-North and Amtrak. It is also next to the Bridgeport-Port Jefferson Ferry, which the city said serves more than 1 million passengers each year. The arena is within walking distance of the University of Bridgeport, Housatonic Community College and Steelpointe Marina.
The city has scheduled three site tours for interested respondents at 11 a.m. on April 23, May 9 and May 14. Written questions are due by 2 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2026, and completed proposals must be submitted to the City of Bridgeport Purchasing Department by 2 p.m. Thursday, May 28, 2026.
According to the city, prospective respondents can visit the project page on the City of Bridgeport Procurement Portal to register, submit questions and download the full RFP package.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Bridgeport, CT Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.