Statement of Significance (as of designation - May 15, 1975):
Established in 1854 as the U.S. Navy's first permanent installation on the Pacific coast, Mare Island illustrates the Nation's effort to extend its naval power into the Pacific Ocean. The first U.S. warship (1859) and first drydock (1872-91) constructed on the West Coast were built here. The shipyard has been associated with military affairs, development of industrial design, and persons significant in U.S. maritime history beginning with David Farragut through World War II leaders.

Condition:
: The shipyard officially closed in April, 1996. Most of Mare Island Naval Shipyard is owned by a private developer. Tenants occupy portions of the base, including the historic buildings within the NHL boundaries. However, most of the historic buildings remain vacant without a use plan in place. Without adequate maintenance, deterioration of the buildings is accelerating. Proposed construction of new commercial, office and residential buildings as well as the circulation plan and proposed traffic volumes through the heart of the NHL district are major threats. The proposed new circulation and parking plan slates additional buildings for demolition and alters the historic street layout, which would result in a loss of integrity. The cumulative effect of deterioration and proposed development could result in severe loss of integrity in individual areas of the Landmark and of the entire island. The Mare Island Historic Park Foundation applied for a Save America's Treasures grant in 2003 in order to restore Building 46, the chapel, Quarters A and Quarters B.

Recommendation/Change since last report:
Mare Island NHL needs a comprehensive development plan and preservation guidelines for the reuse of historic building and sensitive infill construction in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.