Swinerton Breaks Ground on World’s Largest Ocean Technology Hub
On World Ocean Day, AltaSea partnered with Swinerton and Gensler to host a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Center of Innovation renovation on AltaSea’s Port of Los Angeles campus. Nearly 200 representatives from local government, businesses, and the scientific community gathered to discuss the importance of ocean health and sustainability, with attendees including AltaSea President and Chief Executive Officer Terry Tamminen, Board Chairwoman Geraldine Knatz, and Los Angeles City Councilmember Tim McOsker.
The event marked an important milestone in AltaSea’s mission and kicked off an exciting new chapter for the future of Los Angeles and the organization. Speakers highlighted the progress made since AltaSea’s inception and ongoing plans for the 35-acre innovation center. After a ceremonial contract signing and shovel-turning, guests explored AltaSea’s Visitor Pavilion.
The research conducted at AltaSea, “not only will save the planet but bring new opportunities. We owe that to the future,” McOsker said at the event. Philanthropist Melanie Lindquist added, “We believe AltaSea is the innovation that will end up saving the planet. We believe its best days are ahead.”
In the project’s first phase, Swinerton will transform a centuries-old warehouse 40,000-square-foot into a modern space for research, education, workforce enhancement, and innovation focused on ocean-derived solutions to climate change. With 4,100 square feet of waterfront dock and wharf space, the facility will be net-positive by generating more energy through tidal, wind, and solar generation than it consumes. Overall, the vision for the technology hub is to create economic growth and improved livelihood through the sustainable use of ocean resources. The project will include future warehouse conversions totaling 180,000 square feet, creating research space for industry professionals and a consortium of 23 universities and colleges.
