Core supporters of the Quincy Square Project revitalization, next to the Historic Roxy Theatre in downtown Bremerton, gathered on Wednesday to celebrate the passage of $2.5 million in new federal funding for the effort.

U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer of the 6th Congressional District championed the funding request, which was part of a 12-bill government funding package and passed with bipartisan support. President Biden signed it into law earlier this month.

The bill included the Quincy Square Project funding to assist the construction phase, which will include street reconstruction, landscape and stormwater improvements, water improvements and relocations, lighting, pedestrian and festival amenities, art, signage, engineering and project management.

Kilmer said the new funding will get the project closer to the finish line.

“The Quincy Square Project is all about strengthening the vitality in Bremerton’s downtown core — and complementing and building on recent revitalization efforts by supporting small businesses, growing jobs, and providing access to more affordable housing,” Kilmer said at the celebration.

“Importantly, by securing new federal funding, we’re ensuring that this isn’t just an investment being made by local taxpayers. It’s an investment that’s being made to increase economic opportunity without raising any costs on folks in Kitsap County.”

Kilmer referenced the project’s namesake, Quincy Jones, who early in his life lived in Bremerton where he first began his career in music.

“The City of Bremerton appreciates Congressman Kilmer’s support of this vital investment in our community,” Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler said.

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed $2.5 million in new federal funding to support the City of Bremerton’s Quincy Square Project.