The city of Lompoc, California, is poised to embark on an ambitious venture that promises to revolutionize its economic landscape and educational offerings. The Space Base California project, a $135 million space-themed education and entertainment complex, is set to transform the City into a hub for space tourism and STEM education.
Authored By: Dr Deborah Blow, the projects Director of Education, brings 40 years of experience in education including 11 years as a superintendent, 4 years as an assistant superintendent, 15 years as a site administrator and 10 years as a teacher.
Financial Implications and Economic Impact
Contrary to initial concerns, the Space Base project is projected to be a significant economic boon for Lompoc. The project is expected to generate approximately $5 million annually in additional revenue through its property taxes, sales tax collections, and hotel occupancy taxes. This influx of funds could potentially alleviate future tax burdens on residents and provide resources for city improvements.
The project’s economic impact extends beyond direct tax revenues. With an estimated 260,000 new visitors annually, local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments, are expected to see a substantial increase in customers. This tourism surge could elevate Lompoc’s status as a Central Coast destination, positioning it alongside established attractions like Solvang and Hearst Castle.
Environmental and Land Use Considerations
Environmental concerns have been addressed through already completed comprehensive biological reviews, which found no endangered or threatened species on the site. The project’s design incorporates sustainable practices, with about half of the land remaining in its natural state. The development includes nature trails and employs eco-friendly features such as solar energy and gray water reuse systems.
The land’s use aligns with its original donation purpose in 1985 for a space-themed education and recreation project. Federal deed restrictions ensure the land will always be dedicated to education, recreation, and/or open space, safeguarding its long-term use for public benefit.
Educational Programs and Community Benefits
Space Base’s educational offerings are extensive and innovative. The project includes programs for students from elementary through high school, featuring hands-on STEM learning experiences and problem-solving adventures. Notable initiatives include:
- A three-day science camp for sixth graders, eliminating the need for long-distance travel to other programs
- Career track internships for high school students
- A Space and Aerospace technician program for high school seniors and adults, offering industry certifications
- Summer and week end space education camps for various age groups, including families and adults
- Summer day space education camp for Lompoc Valley youth.
These programs not only enhance educational opportunities for local students but also create employment opportunities for educators and attract students from a broader region.
The Lompoc Unified School District was the key partner in developing these Education Plans and its Board has issued a Resolution of Support for the project.
Employment and Workforce Development
The project is slated to create approximately 400 jobs, with 350 full-time year-round positions and 50 part-time or seasonal roles. This employment boost could significantly reduce local commuter numbers, allowing more residents to work within their community. Additionally, the increased tourism is expected to generate very substantial growth in secondary employment in the hospitality and service sectors.
Infrastructure and Community Planning
Concerns about traffic and noise have been addressed in the project’s design. Traffic mitigation strategies include shuttle services, bus tours, and strategic scheduling to minimize impact during peak commute hours. The project’s virtual reality-based attractions are designed to be quieter than traditional amusement park rides, mitigating noise concerns.
The development includes plans for community events, featuring a stage in the Launch Viewing Plaza equipped for various gatherings. This multi-use Plaza could become a focal point for local activities and events.
Space Tourism and Launch Viewing
A unique feature of Space Base is its direct line of sight to the SpaceX launch pad, offering visitors the opportunity to watch rockets ignite on the pad and view live rocket launches. This aspect of the project capitalizes on the growing interest in space tourism and could position Lompoc as a premier destination for space enthusiasts.
Project Viability and Funding
The Space Base project’s viability is bolstered by its design team’s pedigree, which includes former Disney professionals with a track record of successful themed entertainment and education projects. The project’s funding model follows a conventional five-step process, including initial “friends and family” funding, followed by larger investment rounds and commercial financing.
City of Lompoc Agreement
The City has signed a property Lease and Disposition/Development agreement that clearly outlines the steps needed to develop the project and the price to be paid. Although, with the deed restrictions, the City’s appraiser found the usable land outside Ken Adam Park had a market value of $300,000, the City Council determined the price should be $1,125,000.00 which is the agreed purchase amount. Under the terms of the Lease DDA Ken Adam Park will continue to be available to the public with $325,000 in improvements to address deferred maintenance and meet current accessibility requirements.
In conclusion, the Space Base project represents a significant opportunity for Lompoc to diversify its economy, enhance its educational offerings, and establish itself as a unique destination in the space tourism sector. While ambitious, the project’s comprehensive planning and experienced backing suggest a promising venture that could redefine Lompoc’s future.
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