A 35-acre waterfront campus at the Port of Los Angeles is undergoing a transformative renovation, converting three historic warehouses that have stood for over a century into research and education spaces dedicated to addressing climate change through ocean-based solutions.
AltaSea, a Los Angeles-based public-private ocean institute, is embarking on the expansion of its AltaSea campus at the Port of Los Angeles. This endeavor aims to create a hub for research, education, workforce development, and innovation. The Gensler-designed project spans 40,000 square feet on a pier in the San Pedro Bay, featuring an impressive 4,100 linear feet of waterfront dock and wharf space, according to L.A. Business First.
Since its establishment in 2014, AltaSea has collaborated with over 30 universities and 15 community-based organizations, actively engaging with L.A.’s “blue economy.”
The funding for this renovation project, which combines public and private resources, has reached a total of $29 million. Contributions have been made by the State of California, the Port of Los Angeles, and a number of philanthropic entities. Approximately $18 million is allocated for the refurbishment of the warehouses, the development of a linear park and garden area, and the installation of 2.2 megawatts of solar power on AltaSea’s rooftop.
The AltaSea campus houses various institutions, and a portion of the funding will be dedicated to enhancing programs, staffing, and tenant improvements within the buildings. Tenants at AltaSea are actively involved in a number of initiatives focused on combating climate change. Examples include RCAM Technologies’ 3D cement printing for ocean wind infrastructure, UCLA’s carbon capture barge, Eco Wave Power’s wave energy power station, and USC’s aquaculture lab.
In collaboration with community groups, AltaSea is also hoping the project will help generate employment opportunities within the blue economy. Organizations such as the Entrepreneur Educational Center Inc. and Strength Based Community Change are working with AltaSea to create a pathway from South Bay communities to AltaSea and other ocean-focused groups.
Moreover, the AltaSea campus serves as the home for the Southern California Marine Institute, a nonprofit oceanographic institution and multi-campus research facility dedicated to ocean-related research.
