2 Naval Station Structures Demolished

In a blow to preservationists making a last-ditch fight to save the old Long Beach Naval Station, two major structures on the historic site, including one designed by a famous African American architect, were demolished Tuesday to make way for a new cargo terminal.

Crews dynamited the tower of the administration building, which served as headquarters for the Pacific Fleet before World War II. It was designed by architect Paul Revere Williams.

Preservationists have been trying to save a 40-acre campus on the base, including the administration building and other structures by Williams. They were done in the international style, known for simplicity and clean lines.

Also blown up was a newer 10-story barracks. Other buildings are scheduled for demolition in coming weeks.

“This is a graphic reminder that the terminal is a done deal,” said Art Wong, a spokesman for the Port of Long Beach.

Those opposed to redeveloping the base have repeatedly sued to halt the terminal. Two cases are on appeal.

“This is one of the most outrageous things that city officials can do,” said Richard Fine, an attorney representing a group of preservationists. “They are doing it because they know that if the case gets to the merits, we are going to win. What happened here was wrong.”

Fine contends that the cargo terminal is a waste of taxpayer money and that other proposals that would create more jobs and better protect the environment have not been adequately considered.

For video clips of the dynamiting, go to https://www.latimes.com/naval