Port of LA Opens Call for Redevelopment of Waterfront Property
With phase one of a $250 million waterfront development slated for a grand opening in 2026, the Port of Los Angeles Tuesday called on interested parties to help redevelop one of its most iconic buildings just a mile away.
The port issued a request for interest, also known as an RFI, for the redevelopment of its Warehouse No. 1, a six-story, nearly 500,000 square feet building offering panoramic views of the L.A. Waterfront and Catalina Island.
Parties who are interested in pursuing this opportunity are asked to provide a statement on their potential use of the site. The RFI is intended to inform subsequent steps such as a request for qualifications and request for proposals, which are expected to be released next year.
"Redevelopment of the historic Warehouse No. 1 is another major step in the port's long-term vision to transform the L.A. Waterfront into a vibrant visitor and tourist destination," Gene Seroka, port executive director, said in a statement. "We are excited to continue that momentum with yet another significant revitalization project in the pipeline."
Port staff will hold a site tour for interested parties on Dec. 12. Reservations must be made by Nov. 20 at app.smartsheet.com/b/form/82391f81ed38473690f3d1e8bfa430f2 .
Questions on the project and scope are encouraged to be sent to . no later than Jan. 15, 2025.
According to the port, the site has potential uses for creative office space, hospitality, dining, entertainment, education and other marine-related or visitor-serving commercial uses.
Respondents should provide a general narrative description outlining their vision for the site. RFI responses are due by March 10, 2025.
Built in 1917, Warehouse No. 1 initially served as the port's only bonded warehouse. Portions of the facility are still in use, and it also serves as a popular production location for movies and TV shows.
It's also a California Historic Landmark listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Warehouse No. 1 is located at Berth 60 in the outer harbor at the southern end of the port's main channel, and adjacent to AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles.
"Reimagining such a storied and iconic property on the L.A. Waterfront presents a unique opportunity for developers and innovators," Mike Galvin, the port's director of waterfront and commercial real estate, said in a statement. "We welcome any and all ideas on ways to maximize the possibilities of this property and leverage its commercial potential, while also preserving its historic significance."
Port officials said the 42-acre waterfront development, known as West Harbor, is expected to open portions of its phase 1 in the second half of 2025. A full, grand opening for phase 1 is planned for 2026.
Last week, the port released its draft environmental study on the proposed 6,200-seat amphitheater for West Harbor. The study determined the proposed amphitheater would result in "significant, unavoidable impacts related to air quality, including greenhouse gasses, noise and transportation."
A virtual public meeting will be held on this matter Thursday at 4 p.m. for residents to provide feedback. The meeting can be found at portla.zoom.us/j/87990301483?pwd=7OYVdNZevxwPPIGC9a3hgHUiLDxzbc.1#success .
No registration is required.
