Mare Island Company Enhances Facilities With Renovations and Community Improvements

Mare Island is undergoing a significant transformation, with a dedicated team focused on revitalizing the historic site. During the recent Planning Commission meeting, representatives from Mare Island Company detailed their ongoing efforts to enhance the area, which is currently home to about 22 specialized employees working on military base conversions.

The team, although employed by Southern Land Company, operates under the Mare Island Company banner, emphasizing their commitment to the island's development. They currently manage around 1,000 acres of the 5,000-acre site, with plans to acquire more as the Navy completes property transfers.

Key highlights from the meeting included updates on various beautification projects. The team has been actively refreshing buildings, such as repainting the exterior of Building 535 to attract new businesses and maintain tenant satisfaction. They also addressed community concerns by installing a fence to deter motorcycle use in vacant lots, showcasing their responsiveness to local issues.

In addition to aesthetic improvements, the team has made significant upgrades to facilities. They replaced an outdated boiler in Building 459 with a modern, efficient model and converted an empty space in Building 112 into a training facility for youth sports, demonstrating their commitment to community engagement.

Environmental initiatives were also discussed, including the relocation of bees from buildings to hives on the island, where they contribute to local honey production sold at the coffee shop. This unique approach not only supports biodiversity but also enhances the island's charm.

The meeting concluded with a focus on ongoing landscaping efforts, including tree maintenance and the addition of new plants to improve the island's visual appeal. The team is particularly proud of the newly renovated pickleball courts and basketball hoops, which are now available for public use.

As Mare Island continues to evolve, the team's dedication to both preservation and modernization promises to create a vibrant community space that honors its rich history while looking towards the future.