Michael Bozarth

The board meetings covered a variety of organizational and operational updates. Key discussions included the ratification of warrants, approval of several resolutions regarding collective bargaining agreements, awards for ferry hull repairs and construction management services, and the procurement of rideshare vehicles. The board also addressed agency-wide safety and training, legislative updates, the feasibility of new passenger-only ferry routes, the status of the Bremerton Transportation Center, and potential adjustments to the propulsion systems for new ferry vessels based on federal funding requirements. Furthermore, the meetings featured reports on community advisory committee findings, financial updates, and recognition of transit staff.

The Board of Commissioners conducted a meeting covering several key agenda items. Discussion topics included an overview of passenger ridership and transit performance metrics, the complexities and requirements for installing bus shelters including ADA and PROWAG compliance, and the status of the passenger-only ferry terminal project at Pier 48 in Seattle. Furthermore, the Board authorized several financial and operational items, including a contract change order for the Seattle Terminal Environmental Study, a contract award for construction management services for the Ruby Creek Park and Ride project, the conversion of a part-time position to full-time to support safety requirements, delegation of authority for appointing WSTIP board representatives, and the approval of the procurement schedule for the second quarter of 2026.

The Board of Commissioners meeting agenda for March 3, 2026, included several key items. The consent agenda involved warrants for January 2026 and minutes from February 3, 2026. Full discussion and action items covered approving a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with IAM Local 160 & Teamsters Local 589, awarding a contract for the M/V Enetai Hull Fitting Replacement, approving off-duty police services with the Bremerton Police Department, authorizing the purchase of rideshare vehicles, approving a new fuel monitoring system, proclaiming a Transit Driver Appreciation Day, and authorizing the declaration of various surplus vehicles and equipment. Staff reports included updates on system performance, financial reports through January 2026, fuel costs, and a report from the Kitsap Transit State Lobbyist.

This Fact Book serves as a comprehensive planning tool to inform the Kitsap Transit Long-Range Transit Plan (LRTP) update, which guides the agency over a 20-year timeframe. It provides an in-depth system overview including long-term ridership trends, service characteristics, fleet status, and operational challenges such as congestion and base capacity. The document further analyzes the impacts of COVID-19 on ridership, reviews current development plans focusing on ferry service and future growth patterns, and conducts a market analysis to identify transit demand and service gaps within Kitsap County and regionally. Additionally, it examines existing and potential performance standards and outlines the project timeline for the LRTP's development.

This Agency Safety Plan outlines Kitsap Transit's comprehensive approach to safety for passengers, transit workers, and the public. It details a Safety Management System (SMS) focused on proactive hazard identification, safety risk management, continuous improvement, and regulatory compliance. The plan emphasizes establishing annual safety objectives and performance targets, fostering an employee safety reporting culture, and implementing effective risk controls to protect employees and assets, while reducing vehicle damage and accidents.