The Port of Bremerton’s Port Orchard Marina has embarked on the replacement of its North and East Breakwaters for the coming two-year period. The nearly 50-year-old breakwater has reached its service life, and it’s no longer cost effective to continue with temporary repairs.
The new North and East Breakwaters, with a total length of 1500 feet, will be positioned farther northward from the main spine docks, allowing for a wider fairway and easier access to marina slips. The old breakwater will remain in place until the new breakwater has been installed, after which the old breakwater will be removed. Floats for the new breakwater are being constructed offsite and will be put in place when made available. Guest moorage will continue to be offered on the old breakwater and in slips on G Dock throughout the construction and installation process. Call 360-876-5535, or go online for reservations.
The marina is an important asset and economic driver for the city of Port Orchard contributing $10 million annually, and provides moorage for various public uses, including government emergency services, commercial fishing, cargo unloading docks, the Kitsap Transit foot ferry fleet, and permanent and guest recreational moorage. The new breakwater will be a welcome asset for the community and will be greatly appreciated by visiting boaters. Charging stations will be in place on the new breakwater for electric boats. The breakwater project is anticipated to be completed in 2026.
The design, engineering, and permitting for the breakwater project was completed by PND Engineers Inc., based in Anchorage Alaska. The total cost of the breakwater replacement project is approximately $15.7 million. The Port has secured $7.3 million: $1 million from the State’s capital budget, $2 million from the State’s transportation budget, $1 million from Kitsap Transit, $1.3 million from Port of Bremerton’s budget, and $2 million from the State for the design work. The Port just recently received federal grants to help with the remaining cost.
Next time you’re boating in Puget Sound, put Port Orchard on your list of destinations, it may surprise you. Port Orchard has a charming small-town vibe with antique shops, pubs, cafes, and coffee shops. Stop by the Port Orchard Farmers Market located just east of the marina, held on Saturdays from 9am to 2pm, April 15 through October 21. You’ll find art galleries and museums, too; or stroll along one of Port Orchard’s waterfront parks. The Kitsap Transit Waterman electric ferry and the historic Carlisle II foot ferry (a Mosquito Fleet-era vessel) transport visitors between Bremerton and Port Orchard.
Photo: Courtesy, Port of Bremerton
