As we continue to push through these historic times, the Port of Bremerton, like many of us, has had its obstacles and opportunities. Working from home, zoom meetings, virtual conferences, and social distancing have become a norm in business over the last two years. Rising construction costs, delays in product availability, and the rising real estate market has hindered some companies from starting or expanding in the Port. But despite the obstacles, opportunities have materialized for some businesses that found unexpected success from demand in products or services created as a byproduct of the last two years.
Last year, the Port of Bremerton was awarded “Job Creator of the Year” by the Washington Public Ports Association for providing approximately 2,600 family-wage jobs in the community. With shovel-ready property, partnerships with the private sector, and the hard work of staff, we unified as a team and found ways to help local businesses accomplish their growth goals. In the coming year, projects will include three more business expansions, including continued design development of “Skypark,” a new 20-acre industrial park with airport runway access, new entryway signs, and other improvements based upon the Port’s 20-year master plan approved by the Port Commission in 2020.
Bremerton National Airport completed many projects to help create more hangar space for pilots as all hangars are currently full with a waitlist. A pad ready site was recently completed for three corporate hangers, and work is being done to prep for additional hangar expansion to allow for more general aviation hangar facilities. Runway signage and taxiway and runway LED lighting were also improved, making them more energy-efficient with improved intensity levels. And one of the most anticipated events at the airport will happen this summer; the multipurpose facility that will include a commercial hangar, office space, pilot lounge, and new restaurant--which pilots and the local community enjoy--will open.
The Port has continued to successfully market its Port Orchard and Bremerton Marinas. These state-of-the-art marina facilities attract boaters from all over the country, and permanent moorage is at 100% capacity. There are two major projects currently in progress at the marinas. The Bremerton Marina is in a public/private partnership for an exciting waterfront development project that includes apartments, retail, and commercial space along with a 385-space parking garage, of which 75 spaces will be reserved for marina tenants. Plans for a breakwater replacement have also begun at the Port Orchard Marina. The breakwater benefits the public and community by protecting the marina and its 471 boat slips, providing places to walk, gather, recreate, and a space for visiting boaters to come in and spend time at the Port Orchard waterfront. This marina brings in more than $10 million in revenue to Port Orchard every year, making replacing the breakwater a vital investment. Additionally, automated pay stations will be installed at both marinas for convenient paying options for visiting boaters.
The Port’s culture is driven by creativity, accountability, and teamwork from all employees. Port staff are very proactive in finding new ways to serve our tenants and community better.
Jim Rothlin
CEO
Port of Bremerton
