By Nick DeCicco | Daily Republic | November 09, 2009
VACAVILLE - Travis Air Force Base is looking to boost the area's renewable energy capabilities through a private venture centered on 200 acres of property near the base's gates.
Base officials hosted a daylong Enhanced Use Lease Solar Energy Industry Day on Nov. 4 at the Hampton Inn and Suites. The purpose of the event was to introduce to the private sector the opportunity to lease a plot of land that the Air Force hopes to develop for use in a renewable energy project.
The 205.5 acres northeast of the Travis gates, which presently hosts Cypress Lakes Golf Course, will convert into a parcel beneficial to the base and community.
'We're excited to be a part of the movement to renewable, clean energy,' said Col. Mike Minihan, vice commander for Travis' 60th Air Mobility Wing. 'Our hope is to forge a relationship between the Air Force and the private industry that is beneficial for both sides equally.'
The lease will create a long-term business partnership between Travis and the private sector.
What precisely the project will be is yet to be determined. The Air Force is currently soliciting offers from developers. In March 2010, the highest-ranking offer will be announced and then enter negotiations for the land.
The length of the lease is up to the discretion of the developer, but can run for as long as 50 years.
The Air Force plans to close the golf course in order to facilitate the project, according to the Request for Qualifications document that was sent out to prospective developers.
Cypress Lakes Golf Course, which was built in 1960, had been identified as an under-performing asset by the government. Just when the golf course will close has not been determined yet.
EUL day featured presentations from members of the Air Force and community representatives, a visit to the site and a panel discussion with key stakeholders to address questions and concerns.
'The process encourages creativity among the developers,' said Blanca Paredes, who is in charge of Enhanced Use Lease execution for the Air Force Real Property Agency. The winning proposal could come from one company or multiple ones who find a way to split the site, she said.
Fairfield City Manager Sean Quinn said one of the byproducts of the project is stimulation of the local job market. He also said the project would add to the 57 percent of Solano County's energy that comes from alternative sources.
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