UPDATE: Solano County and California Forever are racing against the clock to finalize permitting for the groundbreaking $4 billion “Project Gondor,” a shipyard initiative that promises to create 10,000 jobs with starting salaries of $87,000. The urgency intensifies as shipbuilders are set to visit the site on September 15, 2023.
Officials from both organizations are actively discussing a streamlined legislative pathway to expedite the project, which aims to support Saronic Technology’s development of Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs) for the U.S. Navy. This collaboration could redefine maritime industrial use in the new “Solano Maritime Zone.”
The California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (Go-Biz) has been instrumental in brokering these discussions. Gabrielle Stevenson, California’s Associate Deputy Director of Business Development, highlighted that the investment could significantly boost the local economy and national security.
However, challenges remain. Shipbuilders have expressed major concerns about the timeline and the size of currently developable industrial land—approximately 900 acres—falling short of the required 1,500 acres. Without quick solutions, the project risks delays that could push groundbreaking into 2026, a deadline deemed “non-negotiable” by stakeholders.
In a letter to state legislators, County Administrator Bill Emlen emphasized the need for legislation to align with existing county policies and protections. He outlined critical requests, including limiting the legislative scope to the existing 1,574 acres zoned for Water Dependent Industrial use and ensuring cost neutrality for the county through a development agreement.
On Thursday, California Forever CEO Jan Sramek confirmed that his team met with county staff and Go-Biz to revise draft legislation. He stressed the importance of immediate action, arguing that special legislation similar to that used for major projects in wealthy cities could facilitate the development of this shipyard.
A recent poll showed that 55.3 percent of surveyed Solano County residents support the shipyard proposal, indicating a significant backing for this transformative project. The community is aware that the project could bring billions in investments and thousands of stable jobs.
As discussions continue, both parties are under pressure to finalize a path forward that meets the stringent demands of the shipbuilders while safeguarding local interests and adhering to established regulations. The next two weeks are critical as stakeholders prepare for the upcoming site visit and work to resolve remaining issues.
As this situation develops, the potential impact on the local economy and job market cannot be understated. The outcome of these negotiations will not only shape the future of Solano County but also play a pivotal role in national defense strategies.
Stay tuned as more updates emerge on this urgent and evolving story.
