Final Siting Study Released

In June 2024, Kitsap Transit released its Ferry Maintenance Facility Siting Study, a significant milestone toward developing a much-needed dedicated ferry maintenance facility for its growing ferry fleet. The report summarizes the process used to identify potential facility site locations and evaluate site alternatives for their suitability to meet the needs of a ferry maintenance program.

With preliminary assessments completed, Kitsap Transit will begin the environmental review process for the maintenance facility.

Overview

Since launching its Fast Ferry service in 2017, Kitsap Transit’s ferry program has quickly grown to include a diverse fleet of 10 vessels, now the second-largest ferry fleet in Washington. Kitsap Transit plans to construct a new ferry maintenance facility to meet its recurring and ongoing maintenance needs and ensure reliable, cost-effective ferry service. This Kitsap Transit-owned and operated facility will provide:

• Infrastructure to support current and future maintenance needs of the ferry fleet, including a boat lift capable of lifting vessels out of the water for inspections and repairs, as well as charging and maintenance infrastructure for future electric vessels.
• Increased moorage for spare vessels with direct access to maintenance capabilities, relieving the reliance and burden on neighboring marinas.
• A central location for Kitsap Transit ferry maintenance activities, staff and inventory.

What’s Happening Now?

Review of Site Alternatives

Kitsap Transit analyzed potential vessel maintenance facility sites in Kitsap County. Two alternatives were identified that could sufficiently support the requirements for a facility. Next on the horizon is an environmental review process of these two site alternatives and a no-build scenario:

The environmental review process will assess and compare the potential environmental impacts of each site alternative, inform decision-makers, and engage the community, Tribes and interested parties to gather feedback on the project.

Why is a New Ferry Maintenance Facility Needed?

Kitsap Transit operates 10 vessels - seven fast ferries and three local ferries – across five routes. Kitsap Transit's fleet varies in design, with each of the distinct vessel classes requiring substantially different maintenance and repair needs, parts inventories and employee knowledge and skills.

Regular ferry maintenance is needed to ensure the safety of our passengers, reliable operations and to meet all regulatory requirements. Performing preventive maintenance on schedule keeps all vessel systems fully functional, minimizing risks associated with operating in the harsh marine environment and ensuring the vessels remain in good repair for efficient service and longevity.

Currently, Kitsap Transit does not have a dedicated ferry maintenance facility. Any maintenance activities, repairs and inspections that require specialized equipment or supporting infrastructure are performed at area shipyards. To access these shipyards, staff spend up to 3 hours driving — or 8.5 hours sailing – from Kitsap Transit’s Bremerton Terminal. A dedicated facility for the varying needs of Kitsap Transit's fleet is critical to meeting the region's transportation demands.

Engagement and Public Input

Kitsap Transit is committed to effectively and transparently engaging with local area Tribes, agencies with jurisdiction, stakeholders, and the community. Kitsap Transit will also provide information on the project process, site selection, and potential impacts and benefits as information becomes available.  

Kitsap Transit Fast Ferry Route Map (above)

Kitsap Transit Local Foot Ferry Route Map (above)

Project Documents

Link to StoryMap

Link to Siting Study

Appendix A

Appendix B

Appendix C

Appendix D

Appendix E

Appendix F

Appendix G

Appendix H

Project Contact 
Edward Coviello
Transportation & Land Use Planner

Kitsap Transit
60 Washington Ave., Ste 200
Bremerton, WA 98337
Phone: (360) 824-4919
Email: EdwardC@kitsaptransit.com