On 16 July 2025, Martinez City Council voted to begin formal discussions with Tucker Sadler to explore a public-private partnership for revitalising the city’s waterfront and marina. These negotiations have now resulted in the formation of an exclusive negotiation agreement, which lays the groundwork for a potential future development deal.
The agreement does not finalise any project details but sets out initial responsibilities, deliverables and timelines for both parties. It grants the developer exclusive rights to negotiate with the city for a limited time while they assess the feasibility of a redevelopment plan.
The city’s marina spans nearly 70 acres along the Carquinez Strait in Martinez, California. The facility features 332 boat slips, a fishing pier, a public launch ramp and open spaces. Much of the infrastructure, built in the 1960s, has exceeded its usable life. Facilities such as docks, a bait shop and a restaurant have already closed due to safety concerns. The site also faces ongoing environmental challenges, including flooding and sea-level rise.
The city has subsidised marina operations from its general fund, spending over $1.7 million USD on maintenance and urgent repairs between 2021 and 2024. According to city projections, annual marina-related costs could rise to $650,000 USD by 2026-2027, potentially contributing to a city-wide deficit of $1.3 million USD by 2035.
Conceptual plans presented to the council include an entry plaza, amphitheatre, hotel facilities, boardwalk, retail areas, boat storage, a yacht club and recreational amenities such as pickleball courts and a dog park. These elements reflect a broader vision to transform the area into a mixed-use regional destination while maintaining public access and recreational space.
The next phase may involve negotiating a development agreement to define the project scope, public benefits and long-term commitments. The city has confirmed that community involvement will continue throughout future planning stages.
