Kitsap Transit studying locations for new bus driver training facility
A Kitsap Transit training traffic cone.
In order to meet the growing demand for high-quality transit services in Kitsap County, Kitsap Transit plans to build a permanent, modern training facility for our bus operators. This new facility will ensure that trainers and trainees can learn and practice bus driving skills safely, effectively, and efficiently year-round. Kitsap Transit does not currently have a permanent facility for training bus operators.
What is a training facility?
Kitsap Transit is seeking to build a 10–20-acre facility that will serve as Kitsap Transit’s training facility for at least the next 50 years. Functions of the property will include:
Classroom space for transit operators
Paved space for driving classes
Charging facility for battery-powered buses
Area for bus storage
Area for bus maintenance and bus maintenance training
Parking for staff and visitors
Kitsap Transit has been working since spring 2024 on an iterative process of scouting potential locations for the facility. This fall Kitsap Transit has narrowed the search to four sites, three in Bremerton and one in Port Orchard.
Bremerton
A) 4131 Pine Road NE
B) and C) Bree Drive SW (two adjacent sites)
Port Orchard
D) 6225 Sunnyslope Road SW
We want to hear from you!
Public input is an important part of the siting process. If you would like to weigh in on the Kitsap Transit siting study process and the four possible locations for the training facility, please visit our online open house. There, you will be able to learn more about the project and share your thoughts in a survey. The survey will remain open until October 31.
In addition, we will host a Zoom briefing on Wednesday, October 9 at 5:30 p.m. Visit the online open house to register.
FAQs
Q: Why does the site need 10-20 acres?
A: The site requires enough space to offer two “routes” that simulate all the scenarios an operator needs to master to obtain a state Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). A CDL is required to legally operate our buses. The site also needs classrooms, space to store buses and charge electric-powered buses, and space for bus maintenance and maintenance education. The proposed facility is similar to other transit agency facilities in the region. Community Transit in Snohomish County has a training facility that is approximately 4 acres in size, while Intercity Transit’s Pattison Base facility is approximately 12 acres.
Q: Why can’t Kitsap Transit use areas with large and underused parking lots?
A: A bus training facility is considered an industrial land use, so we are focused on land that is already zoned industrial. We are also avoiding parcels within regional growth centers, which eliminates Silverdale and the naval shipyard area of Bremerton. These areas are designated by the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) for building denser housing, shopping and other public services. You can learn more about these areas on the PSRC website.
To request translation of these materials or any accommodation you need to participate, please call (360) 377-BUSS (2877).