LOS ANGELES, Nov. 14, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor–UCLA Medical Center (LA BioMed) has announced its selection of the architect and general contractor as part of the initial phase for the creation of a 10.25-acre research park located within the 72-acre Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance, California. LA BioMed, one of the largest independent, not-for-profit biomedical research institutes in the country, is working closely with the County of Los Angeles to implement a public-private partnership in Biotechnology.
LA BioMed has selected ZGF Architects LLP, a national architectural, planning, and interior design firm to develop an efficient, innovative, highly flexible, and high-performance research facility that is both reflective and supportive of LA BioMed's vision. The firm has completed a diverse portfolio of work for academic, institutional, corporate, civic, and government clients, with an underlying mission of developing new strategies for buildings that achieve the integration of sustainable systems, materials, and technology to attain net-zero energy and net-zero waste water.
Working closely with ZGF will be Webcor Builders, named as the General Contractor for the project.
"We are delighted to announce the commencement of Phase I of our master plan and look forward to working closely with the outstanding teams at ZGF and at Webcor Builders," commented Dr. David Meyer, Chief Executive Officer of the Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute. "ZGF's extensive experience in designing state-of-the art research facilities, together with Webcor's exceptional reputation for quality construction and superior service, brings an innovative approach to the complex design and construction needed for cutting-edge biomedical research."
LA BioMed/Architect and General Contractor Selection
Webcor LA Senior Partner, Andrew Meyers, added "We understand the importance of ensuring that jobs reach our local communities, particularly during these difficult economic times. As part of this project, we will continue our commitment to local hiring through direct community outreach, partnerships with the local building trades, training through apprenticeship programs and aggressively collaborating with local non-profit organizations.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas indicated that he was very pleased that LA BioMed has placed such a strong emphasis on local hiring. "LA BioMed is a shining example of what public-private partnerships can bring in the way of added value to our County medical facilities. Their new campus will serve as a beacon in attracting top physician-scientists to Harbor-UCLA, an outcome offering significant benefits to our community."
About LA BioMed
Founded in 1952, LA BioMed is one of the country's leading nonprofit independent biomedical research institutes. It has approximately 100 principal researchers conducting studies into improved treatments and cures for cancer, inherited diseases, infectious diseases, illnesses caused by environmental factors and more. It also educates young scientists and provides community services, including prenatal counseling and childhood nutrition programs. LA BioMed is academically affiliated with the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and located on the campus of Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. For more information, please visit www.LABioMed.org