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.   Today it is an active air cargo hub and a growing business park. 

Mather Regional Park was established in September of 1995.  The park includes an 18 hole championship golf course and a potential for a variety of recreation opportunities.  Mather Lake has become a recreation destination for fishing, picnicking and enjoying water fowl and other wildlife.

Today Mather has a thriving housing community with over 1,200 homes that were built between 2000 – 2004.  Street names were changed to reflect names of the Air Force Officers. Homes range from 1,100 square ft to over 4,000 square feet and the homes were all built by Kaufman Broad, better known as KB Homes.  All homes have stucco siding, tile or concrete roofs, open floor plans and low Home Owners Association dues.  The Association dues include maintenance and management of front yard landscaping, various open spaces, trails and walkways.  Parks, basket ball court, tennis courts, picnic areas, playground equipment and two schools are local favorites. 

Morrison Creek and the preserved wetlands enrich and enhance the native California landscape of Mather.  This is truly a peaceful and beautiful country-like setting which is located just south of Highway 50.