Recent developments at the Riverbank Army Ammunition Plant site bode well for the future, said officials.

The City of Riverbank and the Army have reached an agreement to secure a 40-year lease to convert the Riverbank Army Ammunition Plant to light manufacturing. The city has been in the process of attempting to transfer the old Army depot site into use for economic development.

“I’m glad to hear, that after many years of delays and negotiation, the Army and the City of Riverbank have come to an agreement on a lease,” said Congressman Tom McClintock, who represents Riverbank and Oakdale as part of the state’s Fifth Congressional District. “This is a huge step towards turning the Army’s ammunition plant into economic growth for the region. I look forward to continuing my work with Riverbank and the Army to see this project through.”

In August of 2025, Congressman McClintock met with city officials, local leaders and Army representatives on site at the facility to discuss the conveyance schedule, outstanding challenges and next steps required for the transfer of the depot.

The newly signed lease, added officials, is an important first step required for permanent development of the site.

“This long-term lease signals the collaboration of federal, state and local government that we should strive for,” said Riverbank Mayor Rachel Hernandez. “Riverbank’s goal is to continue that momentum with our partners to ensure economic mobility for our residents for generations to come. We see the effort and we hope to continue this energy more efficiently than ever before while keeping our residents as our main priority.”

The secured lease agreement will allow for the next steps to begin in the process of conversion of the depot. The Army and City finalized a long-term lease to accelerate the transformation, allowing for continued use of the 192 buildings on-site at the 175-acre plant on Claus Road in Riverbank, with plans to eventually transfer ownership.