It’s climate-controlled. That’s a huge selling point for the current and future clients of Marathon’s improved storage facility, Bonefish Storage. Located just east of Vaca Cut, the facility is an expansion of existing self-storage which now totals about 350 units, more than half of which are the new climate-controlled models.
Climate controlled spaces start as small as 3 by 5 feet ($105 monthly) and go up to 10 by 25 feet ($425) with non climate controlled options up to 10 x 25 ft ($425).
The operation is owned by the Wolfe family, and Alex and his wife Joy are on the onsite managers.
“People want climate-controlled storage to combat the humidity,” Alex said. “And everyone needs more storage.”
“It’s a concern when people are storing electronics or artwork or delicate fabrics,” said Joy. “Plus, it’s just a lot more enjoyable to move things in and out of units that are air-conditioned.”
The Wolfe family purchased the existing storage units in 1997. Then, after the passing of Marathon icon and former high school principal Kay Graddick, the Wolfe family purchased the woman’s adjoining property. (A remnant stand of hammock has been preserved smack dab in the middle of the business’ footprint and will be formally dedicated to Graddick soon.) Construction of the additional storage units started about a year and a half ago.
Alex, who has a degree in computer science, designed the facility to be state of the art. A self-serve kiosk allows customers to choose a storage unit, pay and sign the contract and will then dispense the lock and keys. Customers can also call the facility or visit the website to conduct much of their business remotely, or just come to the front desk. The facility also has a backup generator capable of running locks, lights and cameras in the event of a power outage. The family said the old units didn’t flood in recent memory and the new units are built 9 feet above flood level; all are fitted with doors rated to 180mph wind force.
Karen Wolfe, the matriarch, said the units are renting quickly. “Alex and Joy have been calling people on the waitlist,” she said.
So, what’s the strangest thing they’ve ever stored?
“A giant blow up raft that was being used for a magazine shoot,” said Joy, smiling.
“Oh, and all that beer! Remember that? I think it was like 500 cans,” said Karen.
The Wolfe family said quite a few of their customers are local businesses, storing inventory such as plumbing supplies. Others are storing classic cars.
“Some people just want to get the stuff out from under the house; that’s not a safe place to store items in hurricane season,” said John Wolfe.
The storage units are accessible 24/7 and moving supplies are sold in the front office. For more information, visit bonefishstorage.com, call 305-743-4633 or drop by the facility located at 12693 Overseas Hwy. in Marathon. The office hours are Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment.
