Once the proud, bustling center of Kitsap County, the city of Bremerton was home to 80,000 during World War II.

Almost 60 years later, the population had dwindled to 37,000. Median household income lagged behind state and county numbers by over $30,000. Residents were finding homes elsewhere.

But nowadays, there is a buzz about Bremerton that won't stop. Newspaper articles feature pictures of new buildings going up. Private investors are buying and renovating downtown buildings.

KCCHA, as Bremerton's Community Revitalization Agency, is part of the reason for that buzz. The agency has worked closely with city and county officials, business and community leaders, as well as nationally known urban planner Peter Calthorpe, to develop an overall strategy for the city.

Following the example of successful revitalization efforts in Tacoma and Portland, Oregon, the plan calls for the public sector to lead the way, creating a secure climate for private businesses and investors. Public investments will include development of residences, office buildings and parks, waterfront trails, an expanded marina and view corridors, creating a vibrant downtown where people will want to work and live.

The years of effort are finally coming to fruition. The Government Center and Conference Center have broken ground. Design of waterfront condominiums has begun.

A recent economic analysis estimates that by the end of 2007, these developments will bring 669 direct workers to the city and 1,388 indirect workers to Kitsap County.

The total public investment is estimated at $300 million, with the first two buildings scheduled to be completed in December 2004. Groundbreaking for new waterfront condominiums, which will include public space and a link to a planned four-mile trail
 

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