Bremerton City Council reviews comprehensive plan for housing and transportation updates

The Bremerton City Council meeting on June 4, 2025, focused on the city’s comprehensive planning efforts to accommodate anticipated growth and enhance housing options for residents. With a projected population increase to nearly 64,000, the council discussed strategies to ensure that Bremerton can absorb this growth effectively.

Key to these discussions was the alignment with regional planning requirements set forth by the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) and the Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council (KRCC). Bremerton is recognized as a metropolitan city, alongside Bellevue, Tacoma, Seattle, and Everett, which underscores its significance in the region's development strategy. The council highlighted two designated centers in Bremerton: a manufacturing industrial center near the airport and a downtown regional center, both crucial for job creation and population growth.

A major focus of the comprehensive plan is increasing housing density. Proposed changes include raising height limits in medium-density residential zones from 35 to 45 feet and in high-density residential and commercial zones to 65 feet. These adjustments aim to facilitate more housing development, particularly in areas identified for mixed-use growth, such as downtown.

The council also emphasized the importance of affordable housing. Several large developments initiated by the private sector have transitioned to nonprofit ownership, ensuring that they serve as affordable or emergency housing options. Recent ordinances have strengthened renter protections against displacement, and the city is actively working to prevent housing instability.

Community engagement has been a priority throughout the planning process. The city has conducted extensive outreach, including over 100 public events and targeted communications to residents and businesses. The planning commission recommended the adoption of the comprehensive plan, which is now available for public review on the city’s dedicated website, Bremerton2044.com.

In conclusion, the Bremerton City Council is taking significant steps to prepare for future growth while prioritizing affordable housing and community involvement. The comprehensive plan reflects a collaborative effort to address the needs of residents and ensure sustainable development in the years to come.