Gig Harbor and Kitsap County

Gig Harbor's Development: Who Decides?

Thanks to Paige Richmond of the Gateway , we can better understand how Gig Harbor and the Key Peninsula's development and growth is managed.

It is predicted that as many as 1400 homes will go up in the next 10 years here in Gig Harbor. Not to mention a 215 acre annexation of land in north Gig Harbor into the city limits, numerous commercial buildings, and high density housing projects in the works. 

Most agree the question isn't if there will be future development in Gig Harbor; it's where you have it and the integrity of growth and infrustructure that comes with it. Who controls this development? Who decides how and where an area can grow?

In a nutshell, Washington State's Growth Management Act (GMA) adopted in 1990 plays a large role. The GMA dictates that all growth must happen within the city limits. The land in the city limits is controlled by a land use map, and ultimately the city council who decides how densely different areas can develop. The land that borders the city limit is known as the Urban Growth Area (UGA) which is jointly owned by both county and city. This area is where the city is legally allowed to expand. The land outside the UGA is rural and governed by the county's Comprehensive Plan.

There is constant debate regarding the development here. Many citizens and council members alike, urge that any growth must maintain the history and small-town character Gig Harbor originated from. Some developers insist there is demand for growth, more specifically, the high-density projects.  

Business is Booming in Gig Harbor Despite National Economy

It's like a breath of fresh air to hear despite the status of our national economy, Gig Harbor business is thriving. Ashley Coats for the Peninsula Gateway reports 204 new business licenses were applied for in our area from July 2007 to June 2008. These new businesses are contagious and drawing in more entrepreneurs, encouraging those with dreams of owning their own business to get started. And even better yet? New local business means new local jobs and therefore stability for our local market. Large companies like Costco, Home Depot, Target, and more have opened a huge door for employment opportunities in the community.

The growth in Gig Harbor is finally offering the retail aspect it's been missing and local residents are now staying on this side of the Narrows Bridge to fulfill their shopping needs. Great news, especially considering the rising bridge tolls and high gas prices!

St. Anthony Hospital: A Shot in the Arm for Gig Harbor & South Kitsap

The new St. Anthony Hospital project is fueling future population growth in Gig   Harbor and surrounding Kitsap County areas. The project, estimated to cost $150 million, will become Gig Harbor and South Kitsap area's largest employer according to Mark Larson, Contributing Writer for the Puget Sound Business Journal . Scheduled to open this February 2009 off of Canterwood Blvd. in north Gig Harbor, the hospital will provide some 450 new jobs for doctors, nurses, tech support, and more. Most of the employment opportunities will draw in new residents to the Gig Harbor area helping stimulate the local real estate market.