In 1997, the Navy closed the gates to Naval Air Station Alameda, marking the end of an era. In fact, in 1999, the former military base was declared a Superfund cleanup site. What was once a productive and thriving part of the community is now a costly drain on the City and on Alameda taxpayers.
Did you know that Alameda Point costs the City $12 million a year in maintenance and security? Since the base closed, over $100 million Alameda taxpayer dollars have been spent on the old navy base, and this amount only increases as the buildings crumble. Alameda taxpayers realize little benefit by maintaining the infrastructure such as pipes, sewers, water lines, roads and buildings at Alameda Point.
The City of Alameda (Alameda taxpayers) is responsible for maintaining deteriorated facilities at the old naval base. It is important to note the Navy currently owns the land. If this plan is not approved by voters, no alternative plan exists. The City of Alameda will not own the property or have control over its direction. To remedy this situation, the city elected to bring in a world-class developer to work with the Navy, City officials and Alameda residents to create a master plan for Alameda Point. After nearly three years of collaborative work on the initiative, there is a plan for Alameda Point that allows the area to transform from a potential burden to a community asset.