By Abbie Black / CBS8 / August 11, 2025
Two deteriorating buildings at San Diego’s Liberty Station stand as stark reminders of delayed redevelopment plans, plagued by fires, vandalism and illegal encampments while city officials work to secure demolition contracts.
The abandoned structures, part of the former Naval Training Center that the city acquired in 2000, present a sharp contrast to the upscale retail, dining and cultural attractions that have transformed much of the 361-acre Liberty Station development into a premier destination.
One building, a former Marine barracks, drew public attention to its deteriorating condition. City records show multiple “Get It Done” reports about homeless encampments on the property.
“This is pretty decrepit. It’s lovely real estate right on the water,” said Maryanne Martin, an Army veteran who walks the area regularly.
The second abandoned structure suffered a fire in March. The old recreation center, near the playground, is fenced off and deteriorating.
“You just get used to it, it’s part of the landscape,” said a Point Loma resident.
A City spokesperson confirmed both buildings are slated for demolition, but timing remains uncertain due to the need for public works contractors and incomplete funding plans.
The barracks building was originally designated for redevelopment by the San Diego Bicycle Coalition, which had planned to construct a bicycle hub facility. However, the city says the organization recently requested to be released from its concession agreement with the city.
“It should be fixed up; it should have been a bike commercial thing, that is why we heard,” said a Point Loma resident, referencing the failed bicycle coalition project.
Once the coalition is officially released from its agreement, city officials say they will investigate demolition methods and work to restore the area for beneficial park use.
The area is also connected to a proposed aquatic center that recently completed its feasibility phase, though the city says it lacks sufficient funding for that project.
“It’s lovely real estate right on the water. I’m sure they could build something marvelous there, but we don’t know what the holdup might be,” said Martin.
For now, both buildings remain boarded up, fenced off with shattered windows, graffiti and vandalism visible throughout the structures.
“Hopefully, they will do something. These are an eyesore,” Maryanne added.
The Naval Training Center, which operated from 1923 to 1997, was transferred to the city as part of a federal base realignment program. Most of the site has been successfully redeveloped into Liberty Station, featuring restaurants, shops, museums and residential units.
City officials did not provide a timeline for when demolition contracts might be secured or what level of permitting will be required for the demolition process.
