Construction of a covered community pavilion at Marina Park in Port Orchard has been proposed by the Port of Bremerton.

The site for the pavilion is on property owned by the Port at an existing observation deck. The south shoreline of Sinclair Inlet abuts property along Bay Street.

An adjacent upgrade to the existing landscaping and the new playfield mat/artificial turf in the Mary Ann Huntington Children’s Park is also part of the project’s scope, said Steven Sparks, the Port’s director of facilities and planning.

The Soroptimist International of Port Orchard has been working with the Port to develop the project. The City of Port Orchard budgeted $5,500 in additional funds for the pavilion.

The non-profit Soroptimist organization has donated more than $100,000 from fundraisers to support the Port of Bremerton’s efforts to enhance the area near the Port Orchard Marina.

The Soroptimist chapter in Port Orchard also has provided significant support to develop the Mary Ann Huntington Children’s Park. “The popular playground equipment was the initial contribution,” said Bobbie Weatherill, public awareness chair and 18-year club member. “The equipment has proven to be a big hit with families in the community.”

Port Commissioner Larry Stokes said that the overlook pavilion will be dedicated in honor of the Soroptimist group.

The proposed project site is a 30-by-38-foot concrete deck used for observation and a side stairway for beach access. The new overlook pavilion will be used for public waterfront activities and waterfront trails access. The pavilion, signage and utility upgrades will by constructed this year. Porous paving, landscaping and other site amenities will be completed during phase two of next year, Sparks said.