From many vantage points, it’s easy to forget the city is home to a massive 900-acre oil refinery, its imposing sprawl of stacks, holding tanks and billowing steam hidden from view. View image in fullscreen The massive 900-acre Valero refinery has loomed over every aspect of life in Benicia, exerting outsized influence on its economy and politics. View image in fullscreen The Texas oil giant Valero purchased the refinery from Exxon in 2000. “It’s an existential moment for our community,” Young said. View image in fullscreen The Valero refinery is set to close in April.

Source: The Guardian February 27, 2026 04:33 UTC