MARTINEZ, CALIFORNIA – Martinez’s sleepy waterfront is poised for a once‑in‑a‑generation makeover after the City Council voted on July 16 to enter exclusive negotiations with San‑Diego–based firm Tucker Sadler Architects.
The public‑private partnership would transform the aging marina into a regional destination rivaling Sausalito or Jack London Square, the developers say.
What’s on the Drawing Board?
- Three hotels (one boutique, two larger resort‑style)
- Large amphitheater with bandshell for concerts and festivals
- Ferry terminal linking Martinez to San Francisco Bay routes
- Waterside restaurant & retail village
- Small sand beach & beach club–style swim facility
- New seawall, rebuilt boat docks & boat storage
- Pickleball courts, pedestrian promenades and a parking structure
All told, only about 22 of the site’s 70 developed acres would be built on; the remaining 113 acres stay parkland or open water.
Who’s Behind the Vision?
- Tucker Sadler Architects – master developer, operator and long‑term leaseholder
- City of Martinez – retains land ownership (held in state trust since 1851)
- East Bay Regional Park District – continues to manage adjacent ballfields, bocce courts and trails
The city and developer have signed an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA)—step one in a multi‑year process that will next trigger environmental review and a detailed Development Agreement.
What’s Next?
- Fall 2025: Draft site plan & environmental impact report released
- 2026: Final Development Agreement, if negotiations succeed
- 2027–2032: Phased construction of seawall, docks, hotel and amphitheater
Here’s the full plan for the marina, from the city: https://www.cityofmartinez.org/home/showpublisheddocument/5229/638883499692770000
