HISTORY

Mather Field was established as an airfield and pilot training school in 1918. The Base was named for Carl Mather, a World War I test pilot. By 1990, the primary mission of Mather was to provide all formal long range and over water Air Force Navigator training. Mather Field historically operated its own housing, schools, hospital, commercial, and recreational facilities, as well as the operational air field. Expansion and improvements ceased in 1988 after the closure of Mather was announced. Following the base closure announcement, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors initiated reuse planning activities with the appointment of the Sacramento Area Commission on Mather conversion. A major element of the various recommended reuse plans included retention of aviation use. In the fall of 1991, the Board of Supervisors endorsed a comprehensive reuse plan and forwarded the plan to the Air Force. Mather aviation facilities were subsequently transitioned over to the County. On May 5, 1995, Mather Airport was officially reopened as a civilian airport. The airport area including runways and aprons consists of approximately 2,875 acres. In September of that year, Mather Regional Park was established. The park includes an 18 hole championship golf course and a potential for a variety of recreation opportunities. In October 1996, the Economic Development Conveyance was finalized, transferring 775 acres. This property is ideal for commercial development. As we enter the 21st century, Mather is well on its way to becoming a expanding community, vibrant business park, thriving air cargo hub, and recreation destination.