A $7 million project to replace its “Life Support System” for the care of the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium’s animals is about to launch, requiring a relocation of some of the aquarium’s fish. A batch of fish was collected early Monday by the Monterey Bay Aquarium. “Our animals are at the heart of what we do,” said Crislyn McKerron, executive director of the San Pedro facility at Cabrillo Beach.
The renovation, she added, “will allow us to provide them with the very best care possible. We are equally excited to enhance the visitor experience with updated exhibits, educational programs, and activities for everyone to enjoy throughout the renovation.” The project marks a crucial step forward for the aquarium, staff members said, and provides staff with “cutting-edge tools” to maintain ideal living conditions for its animals.
The new system — essentially the heart and lungs of the aquarium’s network of tanks — replaces original machinery installed when the Frank Gehry-designed building opened in 1981. Friends of Cabrillo Marine Aquarium funded the project’s design and the Port of Los Angeles and the Department of Recreation and Parks will cover the cost of construction, expected to take 10-12 months. As work is underway, the aquarium also plans to refresh and improve the Exhibit Hall with new and interactive exhibits including a state-of-the-art Jelly Lab, bilingual exhibit labels, and colorful panels showcasing Southern California’s marine ecosystems.
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