Richmond History
Demolition crews have begun clearing non-original materials from a historic World War II-era cafeteria at Richmond's Point Potrero Marine Terminal as part of efforts to preserve one of the city's significant wartime structures.
The City of Richmond awarded a $113,000 contract to Greentech Industry Inc. in late August to conduct selective interior demolition at Building 23, which served hot meals at Kaiser's Shipyard No. 3 during the war effort.
Built in September 1943, the cafeteria is one of five historic structures at the shipyard listed in the National Register of Historic Places and part of the Rosie the Riveter World War II Home Front National Historical Park.
Cafeteria - Shipyard No. 3 (U.S. National Park Service)
Port Director Charles Gerard said preliminary work is already underway at the site and is expected to wrap up within the week. Looking ahead, he outlined the next steps for the building once the initial work is complete.
“In 2026, we plan to complete an architectural assessment and put this building on the City’s bid opportunities platform for RFPs,” Gerard said.
The project aims to remove non-historical ceiling materials, tiles, walls and doors added during short periods of occupancy over recent decades. The building has been unoccupied for approximately 15 years, leaving both its exterior and interior in deteriorating condition.
The selective demolition will prepare the structure for an architectural assessment to preserve its historical integrity while supporting the port's goal of expanding industrial and marine operations.
Hazardous materials testing in April revealed asbestos in floor tiles and adhesive, as well as lead paint on walls, windowsills, and ceiling drywall. Greentech will handle the removal of these materials in compliance with state and federal regulations.
The shipyard was constructed between 1941 and 1942 by industrialist Henry J. Kaiser and employed thousands of workers who produced more than 747 vessels as part of America's wartime production effort.
The cafeteria operated 24 hours a day during the war, providing a crucial space for workers to eat and socialize between demanding shifts at the shipyard.
Five contractors submitted bids for the project, with Greentech selected as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. The company must complete additional hazardous materials testing once demolition is finished.
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