Port outlines $15.7 million Port Orchard breakwater replacement; federal grant covers majority

Port of Bremerton marine facilities staff described the Port Orchard Breakwater replacement as a $15.7 million project and said the port has secured approximately $9.4 million in federal and U.S. Department of Transportation grant funds to cover the majority of the cost.

James Weber, marine facilities director, told commissioners the project team is monitoring executive actions at the federal level to ensure grant funds are protected and that the port’s lobbyists and members of Congress are engaged on the matter. Weber said the project is planned to go to bid this summer, with pile‑driving and other in‑water work timed to the allowable fish‑window starting in July.

To minimize disruption to port operations, Weber said the replacement breakwater is being designed and will be assembled offsite; construction will proceed outside the existing breakwater so berthing and harbor access can continue during work. The port intends to sequence work to preserve marine traffic and permit compliance.

Weber told commissioners staff will keep them informed about grant‑fund statuses and schedule milestones. No formal action was required at this meeting; commissioners received the update and asked staff to continue coordination with federal partners and to report major milestones back to the commission.

Ending: Commissioners characterized the upcoming year as significant for the breakwater project and asked staff to maintain close communication with federal liaisons and the project design team.