It’s a new year. It’s the time when we set goals for what we want to accomplish in 2015. In thinking about the community, what are the things we want to get done in 2015? Here’s a few suggestions:

This year should be the year that we secure funding for a new library in Silverdale. Years of planning and comments from the community has culminated in the decision to purchase and build a library near Clear Creek along Bucklin Hill Road. Many hours of study and behind-the-scenes work has happened and now it’s time for the community to come forward and give generously during the Kitsap Regional Library’s fund raising campaign. Work is already happening to secure grants and large donations and what’s going to be needed in 2015, is for each of us to take part and donate.

This year also is the year that Bremerton will add some much needed resources to its community services. Work is underway on an addition to the Salvation Army that will house a shelter for the homeless. And, down the street, the Kitsap Rescue Mission is adding  even more shelter room. There will be laundry facilities and showers for those who have no home to use. We should all set a goal that these services be available for those who need them by the time winter rolls around in 2015.

Downtown Bremerton has plans to improve its traffic flow with several street projects that will route ferry traffic. We need to support the downtown merchants as they work to bring new life to a beautiful city with a view. More long term tenants at the Bremerton Marina and more employees at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard certainly means more activity downtown.

And no one can miss the business growth and new activity happening along Wheaton Way. There’s no doubt 2015 will be the year that brings Bremerton back.

2015 will also be the year that Silverdale will see several of its road projects be completed, including the water district’s replacement of lines throughout the Kitsap Mall area and on Anderson Hill Road. And, by fall, there will be a new shopping center, The Trails at Silverdale. While tenants haven’t been officially announced, there’s definitely a strong interest in seeing places like Nordstrom’s Rack, H & M, the Cheesecake Factory and maybe even an IKEA come to town.

Our list of goals for the community could go on and on. We urge you to make a list for yourself of what you’d like to help happen in 2015.

We live in a great place with so many options for where to spend our time and money. Each of us should commit to helping Silverdale and Bremerton become better in 2015 through our service and our spirit. Happy New Year.