Celebrating the Innovative New Laboratory at Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute
On April 22, 2025, a milestone was reached with the completion of a cutting-edge laboratory by McCarthy Building Companies, collaborating with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) and Flad Architects. This innovative facility, spanning 30,000 square feet, is designed to enhance marine science and engineering programs, signifying a leap forward in ocean research capabilities. Situated in the coastal environment of Moss Landing, California, the lab is named the Instrumentation Integration and Testing Facility and represents a fusion of advanced construction practices and sustainable design.
The journey to achieving this impressive feat was not without challenges. The site required a unique construction approach due to its sandy soils and high water tables. The McCarthy team employed innovative dewatering techniques that allowed for stable construction despite the environmental challenges. A dual-well strategy was implemented to maintain water levels, showcasing the company's commitment to both operational efficiency and ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding ecosystem.
Reflecting on this achievement, Ephraim Bahiru, VP of Operations at McCarthy, stated, "This facility not only meets the goals set by MBARI but also harmonizes with the coastal environment. Our efforts to limit disruption and safeguard local ecological spaces emphasize our dedication to responsible building practices."
The lab's design utilizes resilient materials to combat corrosion from the coastal atmosphere. Elements like 304 stainless-steel fiberglass door frames and cement roof tiles were selected to ensure durability and reduce maintenance over the years. To address potential environmental impacts, a sophisticated stormwater management system was integrated into the facility’s design. This bio-retention system facilitates the filtering of rainwater through pavers, allowing it to return to the local environment, thereby minimizing runoff and protecting nearby ecosystems.
Additionally, the lab features a custom-designed bird deterrent system aimed at preventing seagulls from nesting on the roof while fostering an environmentally friendly approach to wildlife management.
Communities surrounding Moss Landing have benefitted from McCarthy's community engagement during the construction of this facility. The team collaborated closely with local conservation biologists to ensure the protection of sensitive dune habitats. By establishing exclusion zones and strict quality control measures, they verified that all materials adhered to environmentally sound practices.
MBARI President and CEO Chris Scholin emphasized the importance of this facility. He stated, "As our oceans face critical changes, the work conducted here is imperative. The new robotic technology lab will empower our scientists and engineers to create innovative instruments needed for vital marine research and monitoring. In years to come, this facility will play a crucial role in our understanding of ocean health."
Incorporating leading-edge technologies and construction methods, the new lab features a high bay area equipped with an overhead crane to facilitate the loading and servicing of research instruments. It also includes several functional spaces such as offices, conference rooms, a break room, and a multimedia room dedicated to sharing research findings with both internal teams and external audiences.
With this state-of-the-art facility now operational, MBARI is set to enhance its research capabilities significantly, driving forward its mission to advance marine science using innovative methodologies. The collaboration of McCarthy Building Companies, MBARI, and Flad Architects serves as a remarkable example of how construction can meet scientific needs while simultaneously promoting environmental stewardship and community engagement.
About McCarthy: McCarthy Building Companies stands as the oldest privately held construction firm in the United States, with over 150 years of excellence in delivering complex building solutions. The company is notable for its commitment to safety and quality across all project phases, which has earned it a reputation as one of the best places to work in the industry. With approximately 7,000 employees, McCarthy operates numerous offices across the country, emphasizing a dedicated focus on sustainability and community involvement in every project undertaken.
The journey to achieving this impressive feat was not without challenges. The site required a unique construction approach due to its sandy soils and high water tables. The McCarthy team employed innovative dewatering techniques that allowed for stable construction despite the environmental challenges. A dual-well strategy was implemented to maintain water levels, showcasing the company's commitment to both operational efficiency and ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding ecosystem.
Reflecting on this achievement, Ephraim Bahiru, VP of Operations at McCarthy, stated, "This facility not only meets the goals set by MBARI but also harmonizes with the coastal environment. Our efforts to limit disruption and safeguard local ecological spaces emphasize our dedication to responsible building practices."
The lab's design utilizes resilient materials to combat corrosion from the coastal atmosphere. Elements like 304 stainless-steel fiberglass door frames and cement roof tiles were selected to ensure durability and reduce maintenance over the years. To address potential environmental impacts, a sophisticated stormwater management system was integrated into the facility’s design. This bio-retention system facilitates the filtering of rainwater through pavers, allowing it to return to the local environment, thereby minimizing runoff and protecting nearby ecosystems.
Additionally, the lab features a custom-designed bird deterrent system aimed at preventing seagulls from nesting on the roof while fostering an environmentally friendly approach to wildlife management.
Communities surrounding Moss Landing have benefitted from McCarthy's community engagement during the construction of this facility. The team collaborated closely with local conservation biologists to ensure the protection of sensitive dune habitats. By establishing exclusion zones and strict quality control measures, they verified that all materials adhered to environmentally sound practices.
MBARI President and CEO Chris Scholin emphasized the importance of this facility. He stated, "As our oceans face critical changes, the work conducted here is imperative. The new robotic technology lab will empower our scientists and engineers to create innovative instruments needed for vital marine research and monitoring. In years to come, this facility will play a crucial role in our understanding of ocean health."
Incorporating leading-edge technologies and construction methods, the new lab features a high bay area equipped with an overhead crane to facilitate the loading and servicing of research instruments. It also includes several functional spaces such as offices, conference rooms, a break room, and a multimedia room dedicated to sharing research findings with both internal teams and external audiences.
With this state-of-the-art facility now operational, MBARI is set to enhance its research capabilities significantly, driving forward its mission to advance marine science using innovative methodologies. The collaboration of McCarthy Building Companies, MBARI, and Flad Architects serves as a remarkable example of how construction can meet scientific needs while simultaneously promoting environmental stewardship and community engagement.
About McCarthy: McCarthy Building Companies stands as the oldest privately held construction firm in the United States, with over 150 years of excellence in delivering complex building solutions. The company is notable for its commitment to safety and quality across all project phases, which has earned it a reputation as one of the best places to work in the industry. With approximately 7,000 employees, McCarthy operates numerous offices across the country, emphasizing a dedicated focus on sustainability and community involvement in every project undertaken.
Topics Consumer Technology）
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