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Tustin begins meetings to decide fate of historic blimp hangar
The remaining Tustin blimp hangar has become a security concern after its twin burned down in November 2023.
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Jae C. Hong
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Associated Press
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The city of Tustin holds its first meeting Tuesday night to gather residents' input on what should happen to the city's most prominent icon.
Why this matters
Community discussions are underway to plan for the undeveloped parts of the former military base within city limits — including what to do with the historic World War II blimp hangar after its twin burned down in 2023.
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The backstory
The massive, historic blimp hangars are among the largest freestanding wooden structures ever built. Their fate had been hotly debated for decades — raze them? preserve them? and if so, what for? — until November 2023, when a fire broke out in what’s known as the north hangar and destroyed it.
The remaining hanger has historic and sentimental value for many residents and families of World War II veterans. But finding the money to refurbish and maintain it for safe reuse would be a major challenge.
Here’s how you can get involved
- Go to a public meeting: The first one is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Annex, 15445 Lansdowne Road.
- Email or call the city with your thoughts: TustinLegacy@tustinca.org, (714) 788-5859.
- Learn about the Tustin Legacy development plan and sign up for updates on the city’s website.
- Watch the city’s video on the Tustin Legacy development update.
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