Pierce Today

PORT ORCHARD, WA – On June 22, 2023, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) announced that the Port of Bremerton has been awarded a $9.4 million RAISE Discretionary Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.This grant will be used to replace a 48-year-old public breakwater, which spans approximately 1,500 feet, along the Port Orchard waterfront.

“I’ve been advocating for the federal government to invest in ports – like the Port of Bremerton – because these are investments in the future of this region’s economy and in growing jobs,” said Rep. Kilmer. “Folks on the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsulas can really benefit from federal infrastructure investments to strengthen economic opportunity here. And when the federal government makes these investments in improving port facilities, it means the costs won’t fall entirely on the backs of local taxpayers. Today’s news is a big win – for taxpayers, for community resiliency, and for jobs.”

“The Port Orchard Marina represents critical maritime infrastructure that has supported the City of Port Orchard for nearly 50 years,” said Rob Putaansuu, Mayor, City of Port Orchard. “Replacement of the marina breakwater will continue supporting and protecting our community and, with its updated design, will enhance the opportunities for fishing, recreation, and business development in our region.”

“The replacement of the Port Orchard Marina Breakwater is a critical infrastructure project for the Port of Bremerton,” said Jim Rothlin, CEO, Port of Bremerton. “This investment protects the entire asset of the Port Orchard Marina. It improves the safety for the general public, it creates economic development opportunities for the community and the surrounding region, and supports transit choices for our community. The Port of Bremerton is extremely appreciative of the support and attention given by both Senator Patty Murray and Representative Derek Kilmer and their staffs. The Port would not have achieved federal funding for the breakwater replacement without them, and we are truly grateful for all their efforts.” 

“The Port Orchard Marina Breakwater Replacement project is high priority for the Port of Bremerton due to concerns about the age and safety of the current infrastructure,” said Axel Strakeljahn, President, Board of Commissioners, Port of Bremerton. “It provides so many services to our community – moorage for tribal fishing, protection from weather for Kitsap Transit, for SAFE Boats International production, economic security for the City of Port Orchard, and supports numerous businesses, first responders, liveaboard vessels, and continued recreation for Sinclair Inlet. As it is at risk of failure, federal funding is paramount for its replacement, and we are grateful to Rep. Kilmer for his continued efforts to support our project and our community.”

The existing breakwater is currently damaged and at risk of failure, posing a significant threat to the Port Orchard Marina. The marina serves as a crucial economic driver for the City of Port Orchard, contributing $10 million annually to the local economy. Additionally, the breakwater plays a vital role in protecting the only saltwater fueling station within a 16-nautical-mile radius. This fueling station supports marine vessels involved in the transportation of goods and people.

Furthermore, the breakwater provides mooring for various public uses, including essential government emergency response services, non-tribal commercial fishing, the Kitsap Transit foot ferry fleet (which is projected to accommodate up to 600,000 annual trips by 2026), general moorage and recreational slips, and commercial fishing vessel moorage and cargo unloading docks exclusively reserved for the Suquamish Tribe to exercise its treaty rights.

Originally constructed in 1974, the Port Orchard Marina Breakwater is now more than 20 years past its intended lifespan. Storm damage in 2022 necessitated the closure of the marina to the general public, although temporary repairs have allowed limited functionality. However, these temporary measures are not sustainable in the long term. Therefore, the $9.4 million federal investment will facilitate a complete replacement of the aging breakwater, ensuring the continued operation and safety of the marina.

Original source can be found here.