The latest results of the feasibility study for Bremerton National Airport reveal that commercial passenger services have enough demand for further investigation and that cargo services should not be pursued.

The results were shared at a Port of Bremerton open house Feb. 25.

For commercial passenger services, the catchment area around the airport could account for roughly 2.6% of the air traffic currently handled by Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, per port documents. Certain markets could support passenger services, but the process of establishing these services would take several years. The challenge remains in attracting travelers to use the airport instead of Sea-Tac.

The study also recommended to not pursue cargo services. The airport is located far from major highways and population centers, which makes it less appealing to potential air cargo partners, documents read. Only .1% of the state’s exports come from the Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard area, which is insufficient to support scheduled or charter air cargo services. The consultants also noted that Sea-Tac has the capacity to handle additional cargo, which would create competition for any new cargo operations at Bremerton.

Public comments from the open house revealed concerns from local residents about the airport expansion.

John Saleeste, a local resident, expressed concerns about the potential environmental and quality-of-life effects of larger jets operating at the airport. He worried about the impact on air quality and noise levels as aircraft would be flying over his neighborhood.

Traffic congestion was another significant concern. Jerry Mcdowner pointed out the Gorst intersection as an area that would be heavily affected by increased airport traffic. He noted that it could create further delays for those traveling to the airport.

Julie Mcdown, a small business owner from Belfair, raised concerns about the economic impact of the expansion. She specifically highlighted the potential strain on low-income and middle-class consumers, stating, “This would be a huge cost to low-income and middle-class consumers.”

The port board of commissioners is expected to vote on whether to proceed with phase 2 of the study at a future meeting. If the vote passes, the port will conduct further analysis on potential traffic impacts, noise from new services, infrastructure needs, and more detailed market opportunities.