FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington Public Ports Association recognizes the Port of Bremerton with 2026 Community Engagement Award
STEVENSON, Washington – Every year, the Washington Public Ports Association recognizes exceptional achievements by Washington’s port districts through four distinct awards. These honors celebrate leadership in environmental stewardship, community engagement, job creation, and creative partnerships; highlighting impactful projects and initiatives that advance economic development and quality of life in port communities across the state.
This year, the WPPA is pleased to honor the Port of Bremerton with its Community Engagement Award for their airport feasibility study project. This award recognizes the port’s commitment to transparent, inclusive, and far-reaching engagement efforts that ensured community voices were central to conversations about the future of Bremerton National Airport.
As the Port explored the potential for expanded air and cargo service, it faced a range of perspectives from the community. Rather than treating engagement as a procedural step, the Port prioritized meaningful dialogue, inviting participation through a community-wide survey, public meetings, and accessible project materials designed to inform and encourage feedback.
The response was significant. The Port received thousands of survey submissions, far exceeding typical participation, and saw strong public turnout at community events, reflecting both the level of interest and the effectiveness of its outreach efforts.
Equally important was how the Port responded. Community concerns regarding noise, traffic, and long-term costs were acknowledged early and incorporated into ongoing study efforts. This approach demonstrated a clear commitment not just to gathering input, but to using it to guide future decision-making.
The Port of Bremerton’s work exemplifies how proactive, transparent engagement can build trust and strengthen relationships between ports and the communities they serve. WPPA is proud to recognize the Port of Bremerton as the 2026 Community Engagement Award winner.
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As a nonprofit trade association representing Washington’s independent port districts and their partners, the Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA) fosters public policy that supports our members and helps them execute their community-supported goals. The WPPA was charged by the Legislature in 1961 with acting as the coordinating agency for public port districts throughout Washington, serving as the focus through which ports work cooperatively to develop policy direction, share information, and address issues on economic development, trade, transportation, and environmental stewardship. Public port districts offer a wide range of locally governed services, including the operation of marine terminals and barge facilities, tourism promotion, development of industrial parks, management of public access points, marinas, airports, railroads, and more.
Contact: Eric ffitch, Executive Director
360-763-1179 cell
effitch@washingtonports.org
