The museum expansion project is a major renovation and growth project designed to create more space for exhibitions, programs, and community gatherings. It includes restoring and repurposing the historic Fire Station No. 1 while adding new, flexible gallery and program areas.  The expansion incorporates the historic Oceanside Fire Station No. 1 and will grow OMA’s campus by 50% to span a full city block, stewarding two Irving J. Gill landmarks — the former 1934 City Hall and the 1929 Oceanside Fire Station No. 1.

Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2027, with a projected public dedication date in spring 2028. 

Construction will take place in phases, so the Museum can remain open and accessible throughout the process whenever possible. Some areas may temporarily close, and new spaces may open in stages. Visitors are encouraged to check in frequently to our website for the most current timeline and updates.

Expanding now allows the Museum to:

• Better serve a growing audience

• Improve accessibility

• Preserve and rehabilitate a historic structure

• Meet modern museum standards

• Strengthen its role as a community hub
  

This project ensures the museum can serve future generations.

With the addition of historic Fire Station No. 1, OMA’s footprint will increase from 20,000 to 30,000 square feet, adding new capacity for exhibitions, a dedicated education center, and a new roster of public programs. Outdoor space will be expanded, allowing for additional public art, an informal gathering terrace, and a café. The design improves circulation between galleries, public areas, and outdoor plazas, with indoor and outdoor experiences flowing together and creating new opportunities to showcase Southern California artists within the Oceanside Cultural District.

Through this expansion, the OMA community will enjoy several improvements, including but not limited to:

• Increased exhibition gallery space
• More compelling exhibitions
• Expanded permanent collection
• Expanded public art and outdoor sculpture
• A dedicated arts education center
• Dedicated community exhibition space
• Increased access for art-making and art appreciation
• Fire Station No. 1 restored to its original 1929 Irving J. Gill exterior design
• Public access to an historic resource
• Preservation of a local legacy
• Small café
• Sculpture garden with native plantings
• Enhanced visitor amenities
• Larger, more flexible event spaces

The design team for OMA's expansion is Safdie Rabines Architects, a San Diego firm experienced in creating cultural spaces that balance historic preservation with modern functionality. 

Safdie Rabines Architects has a long history of contributing to the region’s architecture, including numerous civic buildings and the campuses of UC San Diego and UCLA. The firm’s design for OMA brings a contemporary approach that respects the historic architectural integrity of Fire Station No. 1. Built in 1929 and designed by pioneering modernist architect Irving J. Gill, Fire Station 1 will be restored to reflect its original design, including its signature arches, windows, and historic fire hose drying tower. The renovation leverages Gill’s signature arcades to connect OMA’s central pavilion and terrace with surrounding outdoor spaces enhanced with sculpture, public art, gardens, public gathering spaces, and landscape elements.

The expanded museum will be a place for connection and belonging as a mainstay of arts and culture for our community.

Benefits include:

• A welcoming community hub
• Informal gathering spaces
• Expanded programming
• Stronger partnerships
• Increased tourism and economic activity here in Oceanside

Importantly, the museum itself was built through community support, and this expansion continues that shared investment in the region’s future.

The expansion focuses on architectural rehabilitation and adaptive reuse while respecting the historic architectural integrity of Fire Station No. 1., which is being restored and repurposed to serve as an extension of the Museum.  Built in 1929 and designed by pioneering modernist architect Irving J. Gill, Fire Station 1 will be restored to reflect its original design, including its signature arches, windows, and historic fire hose drying tower. The renovation leverages Gill’s signature arcades to connect OMA’s central pavilion and terrace with surrounding outdoor spaces enhanced with sculpture, public art, gardens, public gathering spaces, and landscape elements.

This approach:

• Preserves historic character and architectural legacy
  
• Demonstrates responsible stewardship
  
• Supports sustainability by reusing infrastructure
  
• Invests in the long-term good of the community
  

The project honors the past while preparing for the future of OMA.

Through the expansion of the Museum, we will be able to display more of our permanent collection, improve storage and conservation conditions, and expand collection of important works, caring for our collection at an even higher level while sharing even more art with the public.

The estimated hard costs for the expansion of OMA are $10 million, and the Museum has achieved 90% of that goal.  Prior to entering the public phase of fundraising, the campaign raised more than $9 million in major gifts from nearly 80 donors, including individuals, foundations, civic organizations, county funds, and public partners. Major support has come from individuals in the community, the City of Oceanside, and local foundations, with $3.59 million in state funding secured by State Senator Catherine Blakespear, which will be directed toward the historic rehabilitation and expansion of the campus. This broad support reflects strong belief in the Museum’s mission and impact in our region.

Yes. To the greatest extent possible, the museum will remain open and continue offering exhibitions and programming during construction. Temporary adjustments may occur, but access and engagement remain a priority.

Contact us at development@oma-online.org or (760) 435-3727 for assistance.