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Some fish relocated as Cabrillo Aquarium in San Pedro launches major $7 million upgrade – Orange County Register

Some fish relocated as Cabrillo Aquarium in San Pedro launches major million upgrade – Orange County Register

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The Cabrillo Aquarium is preparing to install a new $7 million life support system, requiring many animals to be relocated in preparation for construction. The Monterey Bay Aquarium was on site Monday morning, September 30, 2024 and took many fish. (Photo by Chuck Bennett, Contributing Photographer)

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A $7 million project to replace the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium’s animal-care “life support system” is about to begin and will require the relocation of some of the aquarium’s fish.

A batch of fish were collected by the Monterey Bay Aquarium early Monday.

“Our animals are at the heart of everything we do,” said Crislyn McKerron, executive director of the San Pedro facility in Cabrillo Beach.

The renovation, she added, “will allow us to provide them with the best possible care.” We are equally excited to enhance the visitor experience with updated exhibits, educational programs and activities for everyone to enjoy during the renovation.”

The project is a significant step forward for the aquarium, officials said, and provides employees with “state-of-the-art tools” to maintain ideal living conditions for its animals.

The new system — essentially the heart and lungs of the aquarium’s tank network — replaces the original machines installed when the Frank Gehry-designed building opened in 1981. Friends of the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium funded the project’s design, and the Port of Los Angeles and the Department of Recreation and Parks will cover construction costs, which are expected to take 10 to 12 months.

While 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.

In preparation for the renovation, the aquarium recently underwent several upgrades, including:

  • Aquatic Nursery and Exploration Center: New exhibits including white abalone, seahorses, the kelp forest and a climate station.
  • Courtyard Education Stations: Marine-themed stations offer guests new opportunities to interact with staff and learn more about marine life.
  • Modernized Auditorium: A new sound system and projectors for higher quality programs with instructional videos and speakers.

“We are open during construction and are committed to ensuring visitors have money and can learn a lot,” said Caroline Brady, executive director of the Friends of Cabrillo Aquarium, adding that the facility is on social media for construction updates and upcoming programs can be followed. The aquarium is also looking for new annual sustaining memberships and donations.