New Navy Dry Dock in Bremerton: Community Weighs In Before September Deadline

See original Kitsap Sun Story by Pei-yu Lin

The Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton is set for one of its biggest upgrades in decades: a new multi-mission dry dock to handle modern carriers and submarines. Much of the yard’s infrastructure dates back to the early 1900s, and this project is part of the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) to modernize facilities across the nation.

What’s Being Proposed

The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) outlines two options:

• Alternative 2 (Preferred): Build on the east side at the site of Dry Dock 3. This would replace several piers, add new wharves, and expand facilities at Bangor.
• Alternative 3: Build at Mooring A in the center of the shipyard, with more dredging and higher environmental impacts.

Both plans involve major demolition, dredging, and new construction to improve capacity and resilience.

Why It Matters

• Navy Readiness: Ensures the shipyard can service Ford-class carriers and maintain the nuclear fleet.
• Community & Environment: Impacts on air, water, noise, wildlife, and cultural resources are under review.
• Heritage: Triggers preservation requirements under the National Historic Preservation Act.

How to Weigh In

The Navy is accepting comments through September 3, 2025.

Ways to participate:

• Submit feedback at BremertonWaterfrontImprovementsEIS.com
• Email: info@BremertonWaterfrontImprovementsEIS.com
• Mail: Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Northwest, Attn: Bremerton EIS Project Manager, 1101 Tautog Circle, Room 210, Silverdale, WA 98315

This project will shape Bremerton’s waterfront and the Navy’s future on the West Coast. Now is the time for the community to share its voice.