West
KINGSTON >>> Many residents commute by ferry to jobs in Seattle and Snohomish County (the ride to Edmonds is only 35-minutes). Others work in North Kitsap or commute about a half-hour to work at government installations in Bangor, Keyport, or Bremerton. The town is home to specialty stores, restaurants and services, as well as the 320-berth Port of Kingston Marina. The Port of Kingston Park hosts a seasonal farmers market and free Saturday Night Concerts. Community events include Kites Over Kingston each April, Homecoming Week in October and Kingston Country Christmas in December. During July, don’t miss the Kitsap Arts & Crafts Festival or the 4th of July celebration that includes a parade, Tiny Town (a Children’s Festival) and fireworks on the cove. KINGSTON STATISTICS Population: 2,099 Chamber of Commerce: 11201 State Hwy 104 NE, PO Box 78, 98346, (360) 297-3813, www.kingstonchamber.com Post Office: 10990 NE State Hwy 104, (360) 297-3346 Libraries: 11212 State Hwy 104, (360) 297-3330. 31980 Little Boston Rd. NE, (360) 297-2670 School District: North Kitsap School Dist. No. 400, (360) 396-3000 Utilities: Gas: Cascade Natural Gas, (360) 373-1403 Electricity: PSE, (888) 225-5773 Water/Sewer: Kitsap County PUD No. 1, (360) 779-7656, or (800) 739-6766 Telephone: CenturyLink, (800) 201-4099 Refuse Collection: Waste Management, (360) 779-9403, or (800) 592-9995 Typical Tax Rate: $12.08/$1,000 assessed valuation Median Household Income: $52,956 Average Rent: $1,067 Median Prices: Homes $268,750; Condos $153,000 Est. Travel Time/Distance To: Seattle=59 mins/23 miles. Bellevue=1 1/2 hr/29 miles
PORT ORCHARD >>> On the shores of Sinclair Inlet is Port Orchard, the county seat of Kitsap County. 78
This historic city enjoys a relaxed rural pace with all of the urban conveniences and attractions of Tacoma and Seattle easily reached by highways, bridges, and ferries. The city is also known for its active civic spirit, great schools and outstanding extracurricular activities. Port Orchard sits at the heart of the beautiful Kitsap Peninsula within easy reach of the Olympic Peninsula - the perfect spot for outdoor recreation! Affordability and selection describe local real estate options where new buildings, many fine historic homes, and a few fixer-uppers are scattered through established neighborhoods. Waterfront, view, and golf course properties are widely available. Port Orchard’s excellent 410-slip marina is located near the historic downtown core. Visitors can browse the art galleries, antique, candy and gift stores or dine at one of the many restaurants. In late June, Thursday evening outdoor concerts are offered, while weekends feature a farmers’ market and community theatre. In August, downtown Port Orchard hosts The Cruz, a large classic car show. The recently expanded Marina Park, with boardwalk, gazebo, playground and beach access is a popular destination and the site of annual community events such as the Saturday Farmers Market, the Fourth of July Fathoms O’ Fun, the quirky Seagull Calling Festival, and the Murder Mystery/ Pirates Weekend. An original 1917 Mosquito Fleet ferry carries foot passengers from the local ferry dock to Bremerton where it’s easy to catch a ride to Seattle. Other Port Orchard area attractions include McCormick Woods Golf Course, Elandan Gardens, Manchester and Blake Island State Parks, Horseshoe and Long Lake County Parks, Springhouse Dolls and Victorian Tea Room, Sidney Art Gallery and the Log Cabin Museum. PORT ORCHARD STATISTICS Population: 12,870 City Hall: 216 Prospect St, (360) 876-4407, www.cityofportorchard.us Chamber of Commerce: 1014 Bay St #8, 98366, (360) 876-3505 or (800) 982-8139, www.portorchard.com
GREATER SEAT TLE INFOGUIDE • 2014-15
Post Office: 1125 Bethel Ave, (360) 874-6903 Library: 87 Sidney Ave, (360) 876-2224 School District: South Kitsap School Dist. No. 402, (360) 874-7000 Utilities: Gas: Cascade Natural Gas, (360) 373-1403, or (888) 522-1130 Electricity: PSE, (888) 225-5773 Water: City of Port Orchard, (360) 876-5139 Telephone: CenturyLink, (800) 244-1111 Refuse Collection: Waste Management, (360) 674-3166, or (800) 592-9995 Typical Tax Rate: $11.93/$1,000 assessed valuation Median Household Income: $56,257 Average Rent: $1,036 Median Prices: Homes $222,950; Condos $119,000 Est. Travel Time/Distance To: Seattle=1 hr 10 mins/61 miles. Bellevue=1 hr 15 mins/63 miles
POULSBO >>> The deep, narrow, south-facing inlet of Liberty Bay harkens to the fjords of Norway – a picturesque location that appealed to the Norwegian founding families of Poulsbo and still appeals to families today. Poulsbo’s central North Kitsap location led it to become something of a commercial hub fueled by early logging, fishing, milling, and farming industries. Today thriving businesses in diverse industries, from high-tech to alternative energy to land management to medical and biotech and more are found in Poulsbo. The rich history of the Norwegian founders—and the Suquamish Native tribe that predated them—is portrayed in photographs and documents at the Poulsbo Historical Society in City Hall. The original character of this charming village has been lovingly protected. Downtown shops and restaurants maintain a Scandinavian theme, making it a popular international tourist destination. Also downtown, the Jewel Box Theatre entertains with a variety of productions, while tidal marine life takes center stage at the Marine Science Center. Poulsbo’s mild climate makes it an excellent, year-round boating destination. In addition to the Port of Poulsbo’s full service, 398 slip marina, there are two other marinas, as well as anchorage in the