PRESS RELEASE
January 5, 2026
Poulsbo recreation center work could start by spring, staff says
Marissa Conter
Kitsap Sun
A longtime city project to bring a recreation center to Poulsbo could start construction in the spring, marking a step closer in supporting North Kitsap families.
In a city council meeting last month, city staff presented an updated design and timeline on the Poulsbo Events & Recreation Center, which will be located west of Highway 3 in the Olhava neighborhood. The city recently purchased almost two and a half acres to the east to add to just over eight acres of city property next to the Olympic College Campus and within Poulsbo’s College Market Place that will go toward the $15.6 million project.
City officials report that the PERC’s design is 90% complete, and is planned to include one collegiate-size soccer field, one high school-size field, four pickle ball courts, a multi-use basketball court, a playground and a walking path. The soccer fields are also designed to be adaptable for other sports such as lacrosse and flag football and the playground will feature a humpback whale structure that spouts water as a cost-effective alternative to a splash pad.
Additionally, there will also be amenities to support event hosting, ranging from gathering spaces for teams to parking. Covered seating will be available in the balcony and plaza as well as in the upper-level viewing area of the central building. Called the “Osprey Nest,” the building is intended to not only offer full visibility of the park, but also restrooms and storage on both sides for equipment. Just over 100 parking spaces will be available on-site with plans for overflow parking at nearby properties during events, as well as space and charging for three to five electric food trucks.
The playground and “Osprey Nest” could be subject to reservations by camps, clinics and other events. The city is also considering solar panels on the roofs, lighting control systems, PA systems and an ADA lift for upper-level access.
According to city staff, all design elements are selected to create a center with optimal use and access to the community. The PERC’s location is intended to reduce travel for local athletes, and therefore create opportunities for North Kitsap’s youth and support families.
Staff said they are on schedule to advertise bids in January and expect construction to take place from April 2026 to October 2027. If all goes according to plan, Poulsbo could see the grand opening of this recreation center in late 2027 or 2028.
For more information, visit the city’s webpage with updates on the project.
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