HomeMy WebLinkAbout08 Exhibit B.6 Environmental AppxBremerton2044 DRAFT
SECTION 8.6
Environmental
Appendix
Ord 5511, Exhibit B
Bremerton2044 DRAFT
Environment Appendix EA-2
Introduction
The Environment Element and Appendix implements the vision of Bremerton as a City enriched with
valued shorelines and natural features that enhance the quality of life for the community. The
Comprehensive Plan’s Environment Element sets a policy framework that recognizes the relationship
between the environment, land use planning, and a variety of regulatory and non-regulatory efforts.
Impacts of development are minimized primarily through regulations on development, while most
enhancements to the natural environment are primarily through non-regulatory and voluntary efforts.
Direction is provided through statewide planning goals, the Growth Management Act (GMA), and the
Shoreline Management Act (SMA). Statewide Planning Goal 10 (RCW 36.70A.020) instructs jurisdictions
to: “Protect the environment and enhance the state’s high quality of life, including air and water quality,
and the availability of water.”
The Environment Appendix provides existing conditions and information on:
• Critical Areas:
o Geological Hazardous Areas
o Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
o Wetlands
o Aquifer Recharge Areas
o Frequently Flooded Areas
• Shorelines
• Greenhouse Gases
• Urban Forestry
Geological Hazardous Areas
Topography
Bremerton is located within the Puget Sound Lowland. Geologic uplifting of the Cascade and Olympic
Mountain ranges formed the Puget Sound Lowland. Erosion of these mountain ranges deposited
sedimentary materials in the lowlands, and glaciation carved the low rolling hills, scattered lakes, islands
and inlets. The Vashon Drift, composed of unconsolidated silts, sands and gravels, was deposited about
13,500 years ago by an ice sheet known as the Vashon Glaciation that advanced from Canada. These
deposits are as much as 3,000 feet thick and normally are divided into three units. The upper and lower
units consist of glacial drift deposited by the ice or glacial meltwater and are composed mostly of layers
of sand and gravel alternating with layers of silt and clay. The middle unit consists of a non-glacial deposit
of silt and clay that normally separates the other two units. The thickness of the upper unit is normally
200 to 400 feet. The middle unit ranges up to 260 feet but is commonly between 10 and 80 feet thick.
The thickness of the lower unit is estimated to be between 2,000 and 3,000 feet.
The topographic features and waterways are generally oriented on a north-south axis corresponding to
the orientation of the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges and the direction of advance and retreat of
the Vashon Glaciation. Lands range from sea level to over 600 feet in elevation and include forested
regions to the west in the vicinity of the Union River and Gorst Creek Watersheds. Bordering the marine
shoreline are moderate to steep, irregular cliffs carved first by glaciation and then by erosion. Steep slopes
also border the numerous small stream valleys that were the sites of glacial-melt water streams.
Soils
The soils of Kitsap County were formed mainly in glacial drift deposited by the most recent of several
continent-sized glacial ice sheets. This 3,000-foot glacier, emanating from Canada, formed most of the
topography and waterways of the area between 13,000 and 15,000 years ago. The predominant deposit,
and therefore parent soil material, is glacial till. It generally consists of compact basal till covered by a
thin discontinuous layer of ablation till. Bremerton’s prominent soils are various silt loam, gravelly loam,
sandy loam and muck.
Ord 5511, Exhibit B
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Environment Appendix EA-3
Exhibit ENV-1: City of Bremerton Soils Map
Geologically Hazardous Areas
Geologically hazardous areas are places highly susceptible to erosion, landslides, earthquakes, or other
significant geologic events. In Bremerton, the most hazardous of these areas is typically found along the
marine shorelines, stream ravines and ridges. The intent of identifying, classifying and designating
geologic hazard areas is to evaluate whether development should be prohibited, restricted or otherwise
controlled because of danger from geological hazards. In some cases, the risk from geologic hazards
can be reduced or mitigated to acceptable levels by engineering design or modified construction practices
and is completed through a site-specific analysis by a qualified professional.
Geologic Hazard Areas are defined in the Growth Management Act in WAC 365-190-120 and defined in
WAC 365-190-030(9). WAC 365-190-120 designates four categories of Geologically Hazardous Areas:
Erosion Hazard, Landslide Hazard, Seismic Hazard, and areas subject to other geologic events such as
coal mine hazards and volcanic hazards.
The Bremerton Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) regulates development in geologically hazardous areas
as may be permitted when an approved geotechnical or geological report indicates that the development
can be designed and/or engineered to pose no significant threat to public health or safety (BMC
20.14.600). Geologically Hazardous Areas are identified and mapped as Exhibit ENV-2.
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Environment Appendix EA-4
Exhibit ENV-2: City of Bremerton Geologically Hazardous Areas Map
Erosion & Landslide Hazards Summary
Erosion hazard areas include soils susceptible to severe surface erosion, which can cause downslope
movement of silt and sediment. Slopes with minimal vegetation are at an increased risk for erosion
hazards. Channel erosion can occur along the banks of streams with steep slopes and high flow
velocities.
Erosion and landslide hazard areas are defined and regulated in the City of Bremerton CAO (BMC 20.14)
within the geologically hazardous area section. The development standards in this section are based on
the protection of life, safety, and property. Development within the vicinity of a geologically hazardous
area, including landslide and erosion hazard areas, may be permitted based on the site-specific analysis
contained within a geotechnical or geologic report prepared by a geotechnical engineer, licensed
geologist, or designated qualified professional.
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Exhibit ENV-3: Faults and Earthquakes
Seismic Risk Zones are classified on a scale from zero to four, with four being the highest risk. The Puget
Lowland, which includes Kitsap County, is classed as a Seismic Risk Zone 3. The largest of the recorded
earthquakes in the region were the magnitude 7.1 Olympia earthquake in 1949, followed by the magnitude
6.8 Nisqually earthquake in 2001. The Nisqually earthquake was the most recent earthquake to cause
significant damage to Kitsap County, causing minor to moderate damage to approximately 750 residents
(FEMA Risk Report Kitsap County 2015). The duration of these high magnitude earthquakes varied with
the strongest shaking during the 1949 Olympia earthquake lasting about 20 seconds and 40 seconds
during the 2001 Nisqually earthquake.
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
Bremerton has extensive areas of natural habitat, including protected watersheds and utility lands.
Wildlife habitat can also be found in neighborhoods, parks, shorelines, and riparian areas. The City's
habitats support a variety of species, including birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. These habitats
vary in density, with high-density, low-density, and forested areas, each offering different environmental
conditions for wildlife.
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Urban areas with more than 60% impervious surfaces support a lower diversity of wildlife. These areas
favor generalist species and introduced species. High-density urban environments lack natural refuges
and unique habitats like decaying logs, which many specialist species require. Generalist birds and
mammals (such as rock doves, English house sparrows, gulls, mice, and rats) thrive in urban
environments. Other species seen in urban settings include red-tailed hawks, swallows, and certain
songbirds (American robins, chickadees, ruby-crowned kinglets, and bushtits). Non-native birds like
European starlings and introduced mammals (house mice, squirrels, black rats, Norway rats) are common
in these environments. Other native mammals include opossum, raccoon, and various species of bats.
Outside of the urban areas, habitats for wildlife tend to be residential neighborhoods, parks, and green
belts, which have more trees and shrubs and higher frequency of water sources than in high density
areas. Birds such as Stellar jays, flickers, Bewick’s wrens, and hummingbirds augment the list of urban
area birds. A variety of wildlife, including moles, bats, voles, mice, Eastern gray squirrels, beavers,
muskrats, skunks, and larger mammals like deer, coyotes, and red foxes, inhabit the outskirts or forage
within low-density urban areas. Amphibians like the Pacific tree frog, red-legged frog, and western
redback salamander are prevalent in wetter parts of these areas.
Bremerton’s western portion contains forested areas and undeveloped lands, including watersheds
(Union River, Gorst Creek, Anderson Creek), which support a high diversity of species. These forests,
typically second-growth mixed conifer and deciduous, are home to amphibian species like the tailed
frog and Pacific giant salamander, as well as various small mammals (e.g., shrews, moles, flying
squirrels, tree voles). Bird species in forested areas include the chestnut-backed chickadee, varied
thrush, Steller’s jay, winter wren, and golden-crowned kinglet. Forests also provide critical nesting and
refuge habitats for many animals. Owls, woodpeckers, and waterfowl often use tree cavities for nesting,
and there are reports of higher black bear populations in Gorst Creek compared to other Kitsap Peninsula
areas.
Wetlands are critical for many species, including the beaver, muskrat, marsh wren, red-winged blackbird,
Pacific tree frog, and several salamanders (e.g., northwest, long-toed, red-legged). Wetlands in
Bremerton, such as those in the Gorst Creek estuary, serve as important habitats for shorebirds
and waterfowl.
Fish Resources and Habitat
Puget Sound Chinook salmon were listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in
1999. Only Gorst Creek within the Bremerton planning area provides habitat for Chinook salmon,
although they may migrate through larger marine waters. Gorst Creek has undergone significant
restoration and now supports populations of Chinook, chum, coho, steelhead, and cutthroat trout.
Sockeye salmon are also occasionally seen, but their local origin is uncertain. A cooperative effort since
1981 between the Suquamish Tribe, City of Bremerton, and Poggie Club, has aimed to provide salmon
for tribal and sport harvests through raceways and rearing ponds. The Chinook salmon returns in Gorst
Creek are primarily from hatchery origin rather than natural production.
Four other creek systems are known to support anadromous salmon within Bremerton. Anderson Creek
enters the south shore of Sinclair Inlet, and supports chum, coho, cutthroat and possibly steelhead.
Ostrich Bay Creek is the only creek within urbanized Bremerton city limits known to support salmon. The
creek is approximately 2 miles long and supports chum, coho, and cutthroat trout. Enetai (Dee) Creek
flows into Port Orchard Bay and supports chum, coho, and cutthroat trout. However, its range for
anadromous fish is limited due to culverts, which block fish passage. Illahee Creek Watershed includes
mainstem Illahee Creek and two salmonid bearing tributaries. The basin enters the west shore of Port
Orchard Bay approximately 1 mile north of Illahee State Park, and supports chum and coho salmon, as
well as cutthroat trout. The other inlets, bays, and small estuaries in Bremerton are critical for juvenile
salmon, providing food and protection as they migrate. These areas are also used by adult salmon for
migration.
Priority Habitats and Species
A habitat is comprised of environmental elements that are critical for the survival of plants and animals
including food, shelter, refuge from predators, and a place to reproduce and rear young. The type, size,
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Environment Appendix EA-7
connectivity, and quality of habitat areas will determine where plants and animals live and the overall
long-term survival of each species. Loss of historic habitat and habitat fragmentation has been
widespread within the Puget Sound over time. Habitat areas in Bremerton have incurred alterations to
their condition due to population growth and development activities. However, many locations still retain
high-quality riparian, wetland, aquatic, and terrestrial habitats, including lands owned by the city. The City
of Bremerton Critical Areas Ordinance is intended to preserve habitat functions and values along streams,
wetlands and in other designated fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas.
Priority habitats are habitat types or elements with unique or significant value to a large number of
species. A priority habitat may consist of a unique vegetation type like shrub steppe, dominant plant
species like juniper savannah, or a specific habitat feature like cliffs. Identified priority habitats in
Bremerton include wetlands, estuarine zones, and areas like Phinney Bay and the Washington Narrows,
which provide essential foraging and resting areas for birds and other wildlife. Harbor seals use floats
in Ostrich Bay as haulouts, and certain beaches, such as those near Marine Drive, serve as
important surf smelt spawning habitats.
Exhibit ENV-4: Priority Habitats and Species
Wetlands
Wetlands play an integral role in the ecology of the City’s watersheds. The combination of shallow water,
high levels of nutrients and primary productivity is ideal for the development of organisms that form the
base of the food web and feed many species of fish, amphibians, shellfish and insects. Wetlands serve
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Environment Appendix EA-8
important stormwater quality, flood protection and groundwater recharge functions within the City’s
landscape and also provide essential habitat for fish and wildlife, including endangered species.
Wetlands, because of their unique position in the landscape, naturally receive stormwater. Past
urbanization has altered the natural wetland hydrologic cycle in many locations due to increases in
impervious area that increase the volume and rate of runoff, while decreasing groundwater recharge.
Uncontrolled urban stormwater can cause erosion and channelization in wetlands, which ultimately
adversely impacts the ability of wetlands to support aquatic habitat. Reductions in groundwater recharge
within a watershed can also reduce dry weather flows in wetlands. Degraded wetlands can lose their
capacity to remove excess sediments, nutrients, and other pollutants, and provide habitat for fish and
wildlife, if they are not adequately protected.
Within the City, wetlands are protected by a combination of land use regulations (BMC Chapter 20.14)
and stormwater regulations (BMC 15.04). City stormwater code requirements for wetlands mirror those
in Ecology’s Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington, which require that wetlands be
protected from pollutant loading and hydrologic impacts. Wetlands are often highly effective at filtration,
and construction of artificial wetlands to treat stormwater can provide treatment as well as habitat and
open space benefits.
Exhibit ENV-5: Wetlands and Hydric Soils
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Environment Appendix EA-9
Aquifer Recharge Areas
Groundwater is one source of water supply for the City of Bremerton. The quantity of water available for
use depends on the flow of water into and out of its aquifer. Under natural conditions, aquifers are in a
state of dynamic equilibrium among recharge, leakage to other aquifers, and discharge to streams or
marine waters. In developed areas, impermeable surfaces divert water that would normally be absorbed
to recharge the aquifer.
Critical Aquifer Recharge areas are geographic areas which provide the recharge to an aquifer(s) which
is a current or potential source of potable water and, due to its geologic properties, is susceptible to the
introduction of pollutants, or because of special circumstances, has been designated a Critical Aquifer
Recharge Area in accordance with WAC 365-190-080. The City’s CAO separates aquifer recharge areas
into two categories of Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas.
The following criteria are used to designate Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas (BMC 20.14.420):
Critical aquifer recharge areas may be established based on general criteria, specifically designated
due to special circumstances, or based on scientific studies and mapping efforts. Factors considered
in the identification of critical aquifer recharge areas include depth to water table, presence of highly
permeable soils (specifically Group A hydrologic soils), presence of flat terrain, and the presence of
more permeable surficial geology. Critical aquifer recharge areas may be placed in one (1) of the
following categories:
(a) Category I Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas. Category I critical aquifer recharge areas are those
areas where potential for certain land use activities to adversely affect groundwater is high. Category
I critical aquifer recharge areas include:
(1) Areas inside the five (5) year time-of-travel zone for Group A water system wells, calculated
in accordance with the Washington State Source Water Assessment Program.
(2) Ten (10) year time-of-travel zones in wellhead protection areas are included as critical aquifer
recharge when a well draws its water from an aquifer that is at or above sea level and is without
an overlying protective impermeable layer.
(3) Areas identified as regionally significant aquifer recharge areas and identified as such by the
City are:
(i) Gorst Basin Aquifer recharge area, and
(ii) Other areas that may be identified in the future.
(b) Category II Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas. Category II critical aquifer recharge areas are areas
that provide recharge to aquifers that are current or potentially will become potable water supplies
and are vulnerable to contamination based on the type of land use activity. These include the
following:
(1) Highly Permeable Soils (Group A Hydrologic Soils). The general location and characteristics
of Group A hydrologic soils in the City is given in the Soils Survey of Kitsap County by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The soil survey
information is available at the Department of Community Development.
(2) Areas Above Shallow/Vashon Principal Aquifers. Surface areas above shallow, principal
aquifer(s) which are not separated from the underlying aquifers by an impermeable layer that
provides adequate protections to preclude the proposed land use from contaminating the shallow
aquifer(s) below, are considered aquifer recharge areas of concern.
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Environment Appendix EA-10
Exhibit ENV-6: Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas
Frequently Flooded Areas
Frequently flooded areas are those areas established as areas of special flood hazard under
Chapter 17.60 BMC, Floodplain Management. Under Chapter 17.60 BMC, this includes those areas of
special flood hazard identified by the Federal Insurance Administration in a scientific and engineering
report entitled "The Flood Insurance Study for Kitsap County and Incorporated Areas" dated November
4, 2010, and any revisions thereto, with accompanying flood insurance rate maps (FIRM), and any
revisions thereto.
Shorelines
The Washington State Shoreline Management Act (SMA) requires all counties and most towns and cities
to plan for how shorelines in their jurisdiction will develop through a Shoreline Master Program (SMP).
The Bremerton SMP was updated in 2013 to comply with new state guidelines adopted in 2004.
Additionally, the SMP was updated and adopted again on April 28, 2021. The Department of Ecology
announced final approval, finding the SMP consistent with the policy and procedural requirements of the
SMA and its implementing rules.
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Environment Appendix EA-11
The SMP establishes a system of categorizing shoreline areas designed to provide a uniform basis for
applying policies and use regulations for distinctly different shoreline areas. To accomplish this, a
shoreline environment designation is given to specific areas based on the existing development pattern,
the biophysical capabilities and limitations of the shoreline being considered for development, and the
goals and vision of the local community. The SMP is designed to encourage a balance of preferred
shoreline uses, ecological protection, and public access where appropriate.
Exhibit ENV-7: Shoreline Designations
Bremerton’s shoreline designations include:
• Aquatic: The aquatic shoreline environment includes the water and lands waterward of the ordinary
high-water mark within the city’s jurisdiction, including public and private tidelands, state submerged
lands, and areas designated as critical saltwater habitat.
• Aquatic Conservancy: The Aquatic Conservancy environment is intended to preserve tidelands and
waters whose existing natural state is relatively free of human influence or whose resources,
biological diversity, or other features are particularly sensitive to human activity. The Aquatic
Conservancy is applied to those areas marine water bodies, waterward of the Ordinary High Water
Mark, such as tidal lagoons, salt marshes and mudflats, as well as marine vegetation areas that
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Environment Appendix EA-12
support a significant community of kelp, eelgrass and/or other vegetation that provides special marine
habitat value.
• Commercial: The Commercial environment is intended to accommodate high intensity business
districts, light industry, and various commercial operations. The designation is suitable for existing
and future high intensity water-oriented uses and water oriented commercial uses.
• Downtown Waterfront: The Downtown Waterfront environment is a commercial designation for the
downtown shoreline area that is subject to the Downtown Regional Growth Center subarea plan. The
designation provides for an array of uses related to the water, multimodal transportation facilities,
residential, mixed uses, while maintaining view corridors and public access.
• Industrial: The Industrial designation is intended to provide for efficient utilization of shoreline areas
suitable for water dependent commerce and industry consistent with the SMA.
• Isolated: The Isolated designation recognizes areas within the shoreline jurisdiction, which are
isolated from the shoreline by intervening elements, such as roads.
• Multi-Family Residential: The Multi-Family Residential designation is intended for areas which are
currently primarily multi-family residential or intended multi-family residential use.
• Recreation: The Recreation designation provides recreational and public access opportunities along
Bremerton’s shorelines, such as parks and marinas.
• Low Density Residential: The Low-Density Residential designation is intended for areas which are
currently or planned for low density residential uses, as well as appropriate public access and
recreational uses.
• Urban Conservancy: The Urban Conservancy designation protects and restores ecological functions
of lands with the shoreline jurisdiction. These areas are identified as having biological or physical
limitations or other unique or hazardous characteristics that are incompatible with intense
development. These areas generally are not suitable for intensive water dependent uses.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Gases that absorb and trap heat in the atmosphere are called “greenhouse gases.” As the amount of
greenhouse gases in our atmosphere increases, the amount of heat trapped in the atmosphere also
increases, causing the overall warming of the planet. The
various impacts from this warming are referred to as climate
change and include sea level rise; the adjacent image illustrates
a potential 3-foot sea level rise experienced in the City of
Bremerton. Consistent with HB 1181, the City will consider
adoption of additional climate change planning efforts
consistent with statute. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency’s latest
inventory of greenhouse gas emissions by sector is depicted in
Exhibit ENV-8 and greenhouse gas emissions by sector and
county Exhibit ENV-9.
Exhibit ENV-8: Potential Sea Level Rise (left)
Source: Puget Sound Regional Council
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Environment Appendix EA-13
Exhibit ENV-9: Regional Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory, 2019
Source: Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
Exhibit ENV-10: Regional Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory by Sector by County, 2019
Source: Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction strategies identify ways in which federal, state, and local
governments can assess greenhouse gas contributions and set priorities to reduce fossil fuel dependence
and the potential negative impacts of climate change. The main way local governments can reduce
emissions is by encouraging and incentivizing more sustainable behavior among residents. As part of the
Comprehensive Plan Update, Bremerton is required to review and update policies related to sustainability
and climate change.
Legislation signed into law in 2023 (HB 1181) added a climate goal to the Growth Management Act and
requires local comprehensive plans to have a climate element. Climate elements must maximize
economic, environmental, and social co-benefits and identify environmental justice in order to avoid
worsening environmental health disparities. A climate element can take the form of a single
comprehensive plan chapter or be integrated into several chapters/elements such as housing,
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Environment Appendix EA-14
transportation, and land use. HB 1181 provided a schedule for incorporation of a Climate Element, which
will include a Greenhouse Gas emissions reduction sub-element, and Bremerton is required to have the
new element in place by 2029. Washington State Commerce has developed guidance for jurisdictions in
preparing the new element.
The following describes the sustainability and climate change requirements from the state and the Puget
Sound Regional Council (PSRC). It also describes a range of sustainability strategies that could be
adopted by City of Bremerton to reduce GHG emissions. The primary focus is to quantify their likely
effectiveness, estimate their costs of implementation, and assess their feasibility and appropriateness in
Bremerton. The Commerce guidance provides resources and a Menu of Measures which are examples
of model climate goals and supportive policies the City will review and consider when preparing the
Climate Element.
Background
To reduce emissions in Washington, the state has adopted legislation that sets emission reduction targets
to:
• Return to 1990 levels by 2020
• Reduce emissions to 25% below 1990 levels, by 2035
• Reduce emissions to 50% below 1990 levels, by 2050
Bremerton has already taken steps to address climate change by joining more than a dozen other cities
across the region in signing the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement. This initiative is supported
by several sustainability actions Bremerton is engaging in citywide including:
• Performing energy efficiency audits on City owned buildings and facilities
• Working with Puget Sound Energy to retrofit City buildings
• Replacing City traffic lights with LED
• Encouraging City employees to find alternatives to driving alone and reduce emissions through their
participation in the Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) Program
• Investing over $10 million in nonmotorized improvements over the past five years
It is important to note that some GHG reduction strategies can only be implemented at the state and
federal level. Examples of these larger-scale actions that are currently under debate and that Bremerton
can support include:
• Adopting stricter fuel economy standards
• Implementing market-based approaches that put a price on carbon such as cap-and-trade and a
carbon tax
• Updating commercial and residential energy building codes and standards, as well as appliance
and equipment energy conservation standards to be more energy efficient
Actions to Reduce GHG Emissions
Potential Strategies
The following section identifies a range of sustainability strategies that Bremerton could use to reduce
GHG emissions in the transportation, energy, and waste sectors. The strategies are grouped by three
alternatives. Each alternative is modeled off of a low, medium, and high target scenario. Although the
state has set statewide reduction goals across all sectors and sources of emissions, there are currently
no assigned targets regionally. The establishment of any target would go beyond what is required by law
and would show Bremerton’s commitment to sustainability. The Climate Element, due in 2029, will require
the City to identify targets for reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and goals, policies and strategies
that will forward local action toward a VMT reduction goal. The potential strategies below will be evaluated
and considered along with Commerce’s Menu of Measures, during the Climate Element development
and public review process. Many of the strategies identified in the table ENV-10 are included in
Commerce’s Guidance Menu of Measures, signaling that Bremerton’s approach to greenhouse gas
reduction is aligned and is in good position for the upcoming Climate Element development.
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Low Target Scenario
A low target scenario assumes a GHG reduction of 1-5 percent from existing conditions. This level of
reduction can be achieved by adopting a relatively simple and low-cost sustainability strategy that reduces
vehicle miles travelled (VMT) by five percent per capita, reduces solid waste by five percent per capita,
and supports energy efficient retrofits of existing buildings through low interest loan or grant programs.
To reduce vehicle miles travelled by five percent, Bremerton could adopt policies that increase land use
diversity where possible, and invest in bicycle, pedestrian, and transit infrastructure. Having different
types of land use near one another can decrease VMT as trips between land use types are shorter and
may be accommodated by non-auto modes of transport. The difficulties of implementing these policies
and strategies can range depending on public resistance to land use and zoning changes and non-auto
oriented improvements. However, these strategies can achieve a combined VMT reduction of up to 5
percent (with minimal implementation difficulties and low costs) or 12 percent (with greater
implementation difficulties and costs).
Medium Target Scenario
A medium target scenario assumes a target reduction goal of 6-10 percent. To achieve this level,
Bremerton could adopt a sustainability strategy similar to the preferred alternative within the PSIC-
Bremerton Subarea Plan, in addition to the requirements established within the low target scenario
(reduce VMT by five percent per capita, reduce solid waste by five percent per capita), and are 10 percent
better than the state’s minimum requirements.
Comparable to the PSIC-Bremerton Subarea Plan, this strategy could include implementing a mandatory
CTR program expanding vanpool/transit and requiring energy efficient outdoor lighting standards. At the
city level these options would require minimal financial contributions, as the majority of the fiscal
responsibility would rely on the employers, developers, and taxpayers. There are some challenges
implementing a more robust vanpool service in Bremerton such as high fares compared to drivers, and
difficulties finding riders and drivers. However, given the success of vanpool services between Kitsap
Transit and NBK-Bremerton, this could be an advantageous option for Bremerton to reduce VMT.
High Target Scenario
A high target scenario for Bremerton would be to reduce GHG by more than 10 percent. This could be
achieved by more ambitious baseline targets to reduce VMT by ten percent per capita, reduce solid waste
by ten percent per capita, and adopt building efficiency standards that require a LEED gold level of
certification or higher.
This strategy could be further supported by adopting land use strategies with more stringent growth
restrictions, and which increase densities within Bremerton’s city center. Increased residential and
employment densities tend to have more concentrated trips and can be supportive of alternative modes
of travel such as transit, whereas areas of low density tend to have dispersed trip patterns more conducive
to trips made by personal vehicle. Implementing land use policies that support residential and employment
densities are not without their implementation difficulties such as residents who fear increasing densities
will damage the character of their neighborhoods. In addition, adopting an aggressive sustainability
strategy requires a high level of funding. However, if these policies are adopted Bremerton could see a
significant change in the way its residents travel and reduce total VMT by more than 10 percent.
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Exhibit ENV-11: Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Potential Strategies
Evaluation Criteria for
Transportation Demand
Management (TDM)
Strategies
Range of
Effectiveness
Implementation
Difficulties Cost
Who Pays Taxpayers Users Employers Municipality* Transportation: Public Mode Support Measures
Public Education and
Promotion
Increases the
effectiveness of
other strategies
up to 3%
None Low-
Medium P P P
Area-wide Ride matching
Services
0.1-3.6% VMT
reduction
None Low P P
Transit Services
Up to 2.5% VMT
reduction
Ongoing
competition for
public funds
Medium-
High P P P
Vanpool Service
Up to 8.3%
commute VMT
reduction
High fares
compared to
transit; finding
riders & drivers
Medium P P
Transit and Vanpool Fares
Up to 2.5%
regional VMT
reduction
Competition for
public funds; equity
concerns
Medium P P P
Non-Motorized Modes 0-2% regional
VMT reduction
Minimal for low
cost actions; great
for high cost
actions
Low-high P P P
HOV Facilities
Up to 1.5% VMT
reduction & .2%
trip reduction
High cost; public
acceptance
Medium-
high P
Park and Ride Lots 0-0.5% VMT
reduction None Medium-
high P
Increase active
transportation capacity Varies
Funding and
political support
required
Medium-
high P P P P
Integrate “Complete
Streets” principles into
roadway designs
Varies
Funding and
political support
required
Medium P
Transportation: Employer Based TDM Measures
Monetary Incentives 8-18% trip
reduction at site
Tax implications
for some subsidies
Low-
Medium P
Alternative Work
Schedules
As much as a 1%
regional VMT
reduction
Employee or
management
reluctance
Low P
Commute Support
Programs
0.1-2.0%
regional VMT
reduction
None Low P
Ord 5511, Exhibit B
Bremerton2044 DRAFT
Environment Appendix EA-17
Exhibit ENV-11: Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Potential Strategies
Evaluation Criteria for
Transportation Demand
Management (TDM)
Strategies
Range of
Effectiveness
Implementation
Difficulties Cost
Who Pays Taxpayers Users Employers Municipality* Guaranteed Ride Home Unknown Liability concerns
of employers Low P P
Parking Management
20-30%
reduction in
SOV trips
Employee
opposition
Low to
revenue
producing
P P
Facilities Amenities Minimal alone Space: local zoning
requirements
Low to
revenue
producing
P
Transportation
Management Associations
6-7% commute
trip reduction*
Funding and
political support
required
Low to
medium P P
Transportation: Pricing Strategies
Congestion Pricing
Up to 5%
regional VMT
reduction
Public and political
resistance; travel
alternatives
required; technical
and enforcement
difficulties
Revenue
producing P
Parking Tax
1-5% regional
VMT and trip
reduction
Legislative action;
negative public
sentiment;
opposition from
private sector
Revenue
producing P P
Telecommunications Strategies
Telecommuting
Up to 10%
commute VMT
reduction
Prevailing
corporate culture Low P
Land Use Strategies
Development Impact
Mitigation
Varies with
mitigation
requirements
Landowner and
developer
resistance
Low to
Medium P P
Mixed Land Use/Jobs
Housing Balance
VMT reductions
up to 10%
Public resistance;
slow rate of
effective change
Low to
Medium P P P
Transit-Oriented and
Pedestrian Friendly Design
Increase in
transit, bike,
and pedestrian
trips
Requires design
review; developer
resistance
Medium to
High P P
Residential Density
Increases
VMT reductions
of up to 10% per
household
Public and
developer
resistance to
required densities
Medium to
High P P
Employment Center
Density Increases
SOV work trip
reductions of up
to 50%
Large increase in
density often
required to realize
significant change
Medium to
High P P
Ord 5511, Exhibit B
Bremerton2044 DRAFT
Environment Appendix EA-18
Exhibit ENV-11: Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Potential Strategies
Evaluation Criteria for
Transportation Demand
Management (TDM)
Strategies
Range of
Effectiveness
Implementation
Difficulties Cost
Who Pays Taxpayers Users Employers Municipality* Parking Management
1 to 5% region-
wide VMT
reduction
Local council
action required;
public/retailer
resistance
enforcement issues
Low P P
On-site Amenities
Unknown;
probably
reflects
effectiveness of
mixed-use
development
Requires policy
changes, public,
and private inertia
are barriers
Low to
Medium P P P
Increase site and parking
lot landscaping, overall
tree canopy and urban
forests and open spaces
High
Public and
developer
resistance to
additional
regulations
Low P P P
Prioritize infill
development through
zoning and permitting
process
High Developer
resistance Low P
Policy and Regulatory Strategies
Trip Reduction Ordinances .1-4% regional
VMT reduction
Legislative action
required;
resistance to
expanded
regulation
Low-
Medium P P P
Restrict Vehicle Access to
Facilities and Activity
Centers
2.8-10% VMT
reduction
Political will to
face public
opposition
Low to
High P
Parking Maximizing 1-5% trip
reduction
Public, developer
resistance Low P
Energy
Exceed Washington
Building Envelope Energy
Efficiency Standards by X%
(X is equal to
the percentage
improvement
selected for the
project)
Developer
resistance to more
stringent building
codes
Medium-
High P P P
Install Energy Efficient
Appliances
Up to 20%
reduction Medium-
High P P P
Install Programmable
Thermostat Timers BMP* Minimal Low P P P
Establish Onsite
Renewable Energy
Systems
0-100% High cost High P P P
Ord 5511, Exhibit B
Bremerton2044 DRAFT
Environment Appendix EA-19
Exhibit ENV-11: Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Potential Strategies
Evaluation Criteria for
Transportation Demand
Management (TDM)
Strategies
Range of
Effectiveness
Implementation
Difficulties Cost
Who Pays Taxpayers Users Employers Municipality* Install Higher Efficacy
Public Street and Area
Lighting
16-40% Low-
Medium P P
Limit Outdoor Lighting
Requirements BMP* Safety concerns Low P
Replace Traffic Lights with
LED Traffic Lights 90% reduction Low P
Prioritize the adaptive
reuse of buildings Varies Funding Medium-
High P P
Waste
Institute or Extend
Recycling and Composting
Services
BMP* Funding and public
support required
Low-
Medium P P
Recycle Demolished
Construction Material BMP* Low P P P
Water
Use Reclaimed Water 0-40% reduction
Technical
feasibility, cost and
public policy
acceptance
Medium-
High P
Use Gray Water 0-100%
reduction
Financial support
and public
education needed
Medium-
High P
Install Low-Flow Water
Fixtures
17-31%
reduction Minimal Low P P P
Adopt a Water
Conservation Strategy Varies Minimal Low P P
Design Water-Efficient
Landscapes 0-70% reduction Minimal Low P P P
General Plan Strategies
Fund Incentives for Energy
Efficiency BMP*
Funding and
political support
required
Low-
Medium P P
Establish a Local Farmer’s
Market BMP* Minimal Low P
Establish Community
Gardens BMP* Minimal Low P
Plant Urban Shade Trees BMP* Minimal Low-
Medium P P
Implement Strategies to
Reduce Urban Heat-Island
Effect
BMP* Low P P
Miscellaneous
Establish a Carbon
Sequestration Project Varies Funding and public
support required Low P P
Ord 5511, Exhibit B
Bremerton2044 DRAFT
Environment Appendix EA-20
Exhibit ENV-11: Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Potential Strategies
Evaluation Criteria for
Transportation Demand
Management (TDM)
Strategies
Range of
Effectiveness
Implementation
Difficulties Cost
Who Pays Taxpayers Users Employers Municipality* Establish Off-Site
Mitigation Varies Funding and public
support required Low P P
Use Local and Sustainable
Buildable Materials BMP*
Developer
resistance to more
stringent building
codes
Low-
Medium P P P P
Require Environmentally
Responsible Purchasing BMP*
Developer
resistance to more
stringent building
codes
Low P P P P
Implement an Innovative
Strategy for GHG
Mitigation
BMP* Funding and public
support required Low P P
* Costs required of the City for implementation of the strategies to City owned buildings and facilities
** These are listed as Best Management Practices (BMP*) since there is not adequate literature at this time to generalize the
mitigation measures reductions
Urban Forestry
Half of the incorporated area of the City of Bremerton is forest land, and a good portion of that (around
13 square miles) belongs to the Bremerton Water Utility. Beginning in 1917, forest lands were purchased
to protect the source waters for Bremerton's drinking water supply. Acquiring land to both provide and
protect water quality has continued to the present. Ownership of almost the entire Union River watershed
above Casad Reservoir, allows the Water Utility to manage activities that maintain a safe, economic
source of drinking water for Bremerton and the surrounding area.
More than two million trees, mostly evergreens such as Douglas fir, are growing in the Water Utility's
forests. These trees and the forest stands they form provide benefits to our water supply, such as
protection from erosion and cooling shade for streams. They also provide wildlife and fish habitat and
economic returns through carefully managed, sustainable harvest. Revenue from harvest helps with
capital projects to improve the water supply system for both current and future needs.
Although the Forestry is one of the smallest divisions within the Public Works & Utilities Department, its
area of responsibility is one of the largest. The Water Utility's forest lands cover approximately 8,300
acres or 13 square miles, which includes the Union River watershed. This is over 40 percent of the
incorporated area of Bremerton and the source of all its surface water and most of its groundwater supply.
These lands lie west of Gorst and extend toward Gold Mountain near Mason County.
Forestry is responsible for:
• Water quality protection through best management practices and physical security of the watershed
• Management of the forest resource in a professional manner within the constraints of regulatory
mandates
• Support for the operations of the Water Utility through revenue generation using sustainable harvest
principles
• Management of the Biosolids Program for beneficial use to reduce cost and enhance growth on
permitted forest lands
• Maintenance of forest roads to provide access for water supply, forestry and biosolids operations
• Cooperation with local Tribes, state agencies and other groups to protect and enhance salmon and
wildlife habitat
Ord 5511, Exhibit B
Bremerton2044 DRAFT
Environment Appendix EA-21
• Management of communication site leases on City lands
• Operation of Jarstad Park near Gorst Creek
In 1986 the Bremerton City Council adopted a management plan for the Water Utility’s Forest lands. This
was updated and revised in 1996. Addendums were made in 2000 and 2006. These documents provide
guidance for forest and land management activities with respect to the primary concerns of water quality
and quantity protection.
Methods of sustainable management include selective use of even-age and uneven-age harvests.
Uneven-age harvests consist of thinnings and selective harvesting for pole quality timber. These create
greater revenues for the City Utility while minimizing the number of trees harvested annually. The
University of Washington College of Forestry completed a Forest Management Analysis for the City's
forest lands in May 2006. This document provides guidelines to adjust our annual harvest levels to match
the targeted sustainable yields and harvest regimes identified in that plan. This will ensure we always
correctly balance forest health management and water quality protection, as well as provide a source for
ongoing revenue to the Water Utility. Additionally, reforestation of harvested areas is also the
responsibility of the City’s Forestry division, and about 30,000 trees are planted annually on Water Utility
Lands.
Forestry works with the Bremerton Police Department to coordinate patrol and surveillance of the
Bremerton Watershed. This helps protect the quality of the water accumulated in a special 3,000-acre
zone of forest land that constitutes a protected watershed behind and adjacent to Casad Dam. Over 50
miles of forest roads and associated stream crossings are maintained by the Forestry division.
The Forestry division operates Jarstad Park near Gorst and also cooperates with the Suquamish Tribe
and the Kitsap Poggie Club with the salmon rearing program and annual Kid's Fishing Day at Gorst Creek.
The salmon rearing program produces over 2 million Chinook annually. The division has been an active
participant and sponsor of the family-oriented Kid's Fishing Day and has hosted the event on Water Utility
lands for over 10 years.
Ord 5511, Exhibit B