Richmond is on the verge of reopening the historic Craneway Pavilion after months of closure due to a failed pickleball venture. A recent agreement between city officials and Orton Development could lead to the venue being managed by the city, allowing it to return to its roots as a public event space. Former City Attorney Dave Aleshire confirmed ongoing discussions regarding the city taking responsibility for the site.
Sue Wilson, the District 5 Councilmember, expressed her appreciation for Orton Development and its founder Eddie Orton in a recent newsletter. The Craneway Pavilion, located on the bayfront, is part of the historic Ford Assembly Plant complex, which Orton Development has leased from the city since 2004 for just $1 a year. The firm has invested millions into renovating the property, making it a valuable asset for the community.
Aleshire noted that Orton Development proposed to relinquish the event space as a gift to the city months ago. He emphasized that the decision reflects Orton’s commitment to ensuring the Craneway serves the interests of Richmond residents.
Debate over the Pavilion’s use began in 2023 when Orton Development and PB Development Group sought to establish a pickleball club at the venue. While many pickleball enthusiasts welcomed the idea of indoor courts, others voiced concerns that the facility would no longer host community events like arts and crafts shows and the Rosie the Riveter festival.
The State Lands Commission, which oversees the property alongside the city, stated that a pickleball club was not a permitted use under existing agreements. These restrictions limit activities on the site to accommodations, restaurants, museums, and water-related industries. Despite pushback from the community and a protest against the pickleball club’s opening, city officials found it challenging to halt operations.
The conflict culminated in June 2023 when the pickleball courts closed amid disputes over unpaid rent between Orton and PB Development Group. Wilson, who helped organize the protest, noted the emotional impact of losing the Pavilion’s access for cherished community events.
Looking ahead, Wilson expressed hope that the Craneway Pavilion could reopen in time for Richmond’s Fourth of July celebrations in 2024. Before a new operator is selected or city management begins, the property will undergo an evaluation, with inspections already initiated. Aleshire indicated that a $169,500 contract with consulting firm RDH Building Science has been established to conduct the necessary assessments.
If negotiations proceed smoothly, a draft agreement could be presented to the City Council in January or February 2024. If approved, a 90-day escrow period would follow, paving the way for the city to take over management of the Pavilion while Orton Development would continue overseeing the majority of the property.
Aleshire underscored the Pavilion’s potential significance to the community, stating, “It could be one of the most significant sites in the city. It’s basically the opening of the Bay that could be enjoyed by the whole community if we can find the right use.” The prospect of revitalizing the Craneway Pavilion represents a hopeful chapter for Richmond, as residents eagerly await the return of a versatile space for public gatherings.
