The Marketplace Bakersfield Breaks Ground on Courtyard Redevelopment
The Marketplace Bakersfield Breaks Ground on Courtyard Redevelopment
The Marketplace Bakersfield Breaks Ground on Courtyard Redevelopment
The project will create a flexible new community gathering space as The Marketplace welcomes a growing lineup of retail, dining, and entertainment offerings.
Bakersfield, CA (August 26, 2026) – First Washington Realty (FWR) hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking at The Marketplace Bakersfield on August 25, 2026, marking an important milestone ahead of the redevelopment of the shopping center’s central courtyard. Construction is expected to begin in September, with completion anticipated in approximately 100 days.
The project represents FWR’s continued investment in The Marketplace and will transform the existing central courtyard into a more inviting, flexible, and connected gathering place designed to support both everyday use and community events.
Planned improvements include a multipurpose synthetic lawn, drought-tolerant landscaping, an integrated water feature, overhead market-style string lighting, shared patio areas with bistro and lounge seating, and sculptural seating elements. Flexible gathering areas will support concerts, seasonal activations, and community events throughout the year.
In addition to the courtyard redevelopment, FWR is nearing completion of a solar carport project in the north parking lot. The green energy-producing shade structures will generate renewable energy for the property while adding a valuable customer amenity through shaded parking that helps keep vehicles cooler during Bakersfield’s warmer months. Installation is expected to be completed in the weeks ahead.
“Our goal is to create a public space that strengthens the connection between our merchants and the community, and gives people more reasons to visit, stay longer, and experience The Marketplace in new ways,” said Henry Avila, Senior Vice President, Operations at First Washington Realty. “The new courtyard reflects our continued commitment to investing in The Marketplace and creating an environment that enhances the experience for our customers, merchants, and the broader Bakersfield community.”
The courtyard redevelopment comes at an exciting time for The Marketplace, with a number of new and expanding businesses adding to the center’s mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and services.
85°C Bakery Cafe opened at The Marketplace in May 2026, followed by Golden Spoon in July. Also in May, longtime Marketplace tenant Just Wing It expanded its presence at the center with the addition of Just Swing It, an indoor golf simulation concept that introduces a new entertainment experience to the property.
The center’s growing tenant mix will also include Five Below, LOFT, Eggbred, Golden 1 Credit Union, and Glo Tanning, all coming soon to The Marketplace.
“The activity we’re seeing at The Marketplace reflects continued retailer interest in the property and in the Bakersfield market,” said Joe Janesin, Senior Director of Leasing at First Washington Realty. “We value the mix of both local and national businesses at the center, bringing together a diverse lineup of retailers that reflects the community while giving customers more reasons to visit The Marketplace. The investment in the courtyard complements that leasing activity and creates an even stronger environment for both our existing retailers and the new businesses joining the center.”
Beyond its day-to-day use, the central courtyard has long served as a gathering place for community events and seasonal traditions, including the center’s concert series, Silent DJ events, Hoffmann Hospice’s annual Light Up a Life ceremony, a public menorah lighting, and a focal point for holiday programming at The Marketplace. The redesigned space will build on that history, providing greater flexibility for existing traditions while creating new opportunities for live entertainment, seasonal activations, and community partnerships.
Throughout construction, all businesses at The Marketplace will remain open. Parking will continue to be available, and pedestrian access to businesses will be maintained. Visitors may encounter temporary construction activity or adjusted pedestrian routes and are encouraged to follow onsite signage as work progresses.
For updated information on the courtyard project, please visit, www.themarketplacebakersfield.com/courtyard.