West Sacramento Mayor Pro Tem, Mark Johannessen, described the proposed “barn” this way:
“It’s an iconic structure that is multiuse. Wherever you are in the bridge district you’ll be able to see it. You’ll be able to see it off the bridge, it’s really going to be a visual hook to get into the region.”
Designed as a small concert venue and beer garden, the “barn” will be in close proximity to many new homes built or under construction in the riverfront district. In addition, if all goes according to plan, a proposed Marriott and city conference center will be just two blocks from the site.
Fifteen years ago, the effort got underway when the River Cats baseball franchise moved its operations to the old industrial zone. Though it has taken a number of years, development is finally taking off in the area; a welcome situation not only for current residents but also for the industries that directly benefit, such as construction, realtors, banking, and printing services.
As River Cats spokesman, Mark Ling, noted about the current efforts:
“We love the development around the area. When we came here back in 2000, we were envisioning something like this.”