FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — The historic Bekins building, located just outside downtown Fresno, is set to undergo a transformation from a storage facility for homes to a vibrant hub for car enthusiasts.
The new venture, Bekins Motor Club, aims to preserve the building’s historic charm while introducing a social and community-focused space.
Joe Jacobson, who has worked at Bekins Storage for over 50 years, shared his initial uncertainty about the building’s sale.
“It’s hard to see it go away and from the Beacons building but what they’re gonna do with it I think is a very good thing,” Jacobson said.
Reza Assemi, the new co-owner of Bekins, outlined the vision for the space.
“What we both want to do here is something that brings car enthusiasts and car culture together in one spot,” Assemi said.
The plans include a bar, cafe and membership options, that include racing and sim machines.
Assemi said the goal is to engage all ages and foster a sense of community.
He also said it is important to himself and his co-owner to maintain the building’s original design as much as possible.
“We’re not doing drastic changes,” Assemi said. “It’s a change of use but almost like a passing of the torch where it still is storage with more of a community and social aspect to it.”
The Bekins building remains operational as a storage facility, with plans to break ground on the new project in 2027.
Jacobson expressed his eagerness to see the finished product,
“I will definitely be down here once it’s done to see what’s gone on with it,” Jacobson said.