Assemblymember Todd Gloria has announced $9 million has been secured to develop a new state-of-the-art performing arts center in long-vacant Building 178 in Liberty Station.
The $9 million allocation from the state is one-time grant funding and marks the largest grant received to-date by the NTC Foundation.
Building 178 is an former Navy building that has been empty for more than 20 years. It will be transformed thanks to the state’s investment and the philanthropic efforts of the NTC Foundation.
At a recent press conference, Gloria was joined by City Councilmember Dr. Jennifer Campbell, who represents the area, and the NTC Foundation to announce the state’s official investment and unveil the future plans for the site.
“What is currently an old, dilapidated building that has sat vacant for decades is now set to become a new, state-of-the-art, major performing arts center for the San Diego region,” said Gloria. “San Diego’s vibrant arts and culture is what makes our city feel like home. “I am proud to have worked with Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins, my legislative colleagues, as well as the NTC Foundation to secure this important investment in Liberty Station and our local arts community.”
Building 178 is located within the Arts District of Liberty Station. It is a three-story, 41,000-square-foot facility that has been shuttered since 1997. It is on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural Spanish colonial revival style and contributions to San Diego’s Navy history.
The revitalization of Building 178 is the next step in the continued redevelopment of Liberty Station. Since the City of San Diego created its civic plans to transform the once-closed military base into a regional asset, 17 of 26 buildings have been renovated. Building 178 is next.
“This year we celebrate our 13th year of converting old military buildings into vibrant arts-and-culture venues for a variety of uses,” said Lisa Johnson, president/CEO of the NTC Foundation. “Thanks to Assemblymember Gloria, Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, Gov. Gavin Newsom, and an army of supporter, the transformation continues.”
Each year, more than 800,000 people from the San Diego-Tijuana region and around the world visit Arts District Liberty Station.
