
By Lt. Lenaya Rotklein, Naval Base San Diego Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO—A ribbon cutting ceremony was held June 15 onboard Naval Base San Diego (NBSD) to celebrate the opening of new spaces for Navy Band Southwest.
To accommodate new construction of Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) cottages and expansion of the Navy Lodge at Naval Air Station North Island, Navy Band Southwest moved to two of the four NBSD former Child Development Center buildings after a $1.9 million renovation.
“This new home gives the Band something they didn’t have before- individual soundproof rooms that can accommodate multiple rehearsals at once,” said Capt. Rick Williamson, NBSD commanding officer.
The other two buildings of the former Child Development Center will be demolished in alignment with the base’s plan for the year 2035. Navy Region Southwest strives
toward efficient consolidation of facilities and smart future shore design.
Their new spaces are more energy efficient, saving money that will be reinvested back to the operational fleet.
“We are definitely excited to be moving to this new location,” said Lt. Mark Corbliss, Navy Band Southwest director. “We average more than 600 performances annually and we certainly appreciate a great place to rehearse.”
Navy Band Southwest is one of the Navy’s oldest continuing musical organizations. With more than 80 years of support to the San Diego community, the Band serves as the musical ambassador for the Commander, Navy Region Southwest.
For more news from Naval Base San Diego, visit www.navy.mil/local/nbsd/.