The USS Abraham Lincoln is expected to shift its homeport from San Diego to Bremerton in late 2026, bringing about 3,000 crew members and their families to the area.
The carrier is based at Naval Air Station North Island and was previously homeported in Everett roughly 20 years ago. Officials say the move will support strategic dispersal of ships and long-planned maintenance intended to extend the carrier’s service life.
Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler expects the arrival to benefit local businesses. Naval Base Kitsap Commanding Officer Alex Baerg said the base is modernizing housing for sailors without families and expanding dining options. The incoming group will be the first to use a new 300-bed barracks and a child development center.
The Lincoln returned to San Diego in early October after a 321-day deployment. Crew members have described deteriorating conditions aboard the ship during months in an active combat zone and said the lengthy deployment contributed to mental health challenges.
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