A New Standard in Port Safety and Sustainability
The Port of Long Beach, a premier gateway for trans-Pacific trade handling $200 billion in annual commerce, is a recognized leader in green initiatives and operational excellence. To meet the unique challenges of safeguarding a bustling marine environment, the Port partnered with Jacobs to create Fireboat Station 20, a state-of-the-art facility designed to respond to emergencies, protect valuable assets, and bolster operational efficiency.
This project has been widely celebrated, earning multiple prestigious awards, including:
- 2024 APWA Best Project of the Year (Facilities Category)
- 2025 ACEC California Engineering Excellence Honors Award
- 2024 CMAA Federal/State/Local Government Award
- 2024 IPI John L. Martin Partnering Project of the Year Award
Meeting Challenges with Innovation
The new fire station incorporates advanced technologies and durable design to address the complexities of a marine environment. Key features include:
- A 75-foot-tall boat bay housing the fireboat Protector.
- Comfortable, modern living quarters for firefighters.
- Materials selected for durability and low maintenance, ensuring resilience against harsh coastal conditions.
- Design considerations for climate change impacts, such as rising sea levels.
LEED Gold Certification: A Sustainable Approach
Fireboat Station 20 is environmentally friendly, meeting LEED Gold standards through innovative strategies:
- Water Conservation: Efficient fixtures to minimize water use.
- Energy Efficiency: Incorporation of energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and systems.
- Renewable Energy Sources: Reduced reliance on fossil fuels through green power generation.
- Sustainable Materials: Use of low-emission materials for improved air quality.
- Waste Management: Effective reduction and recycling of construction waste.
- Post-Occupancy Green Practices: Ensuring a clean, safe, and healthy environment.
Revolutionizing Quay Wall Repairs
Addressing the station’s aging 1950s quay wall was a critical challenge. Advanced technology and collaborative techniques were employed to repair underwater voids:
- Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs): Used for precise mapping of void locations.
- Innovative Grouting: Cement bags and grout injected through specialized pipes sealed voids effectively.
Safe and Efficient Ventilation
Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling, the team optimized natural ventilation to maintain pollutant levels well below OSHA limits, ensuring a safe working environment.
A Testament to Excellence
“The recognition from APWA, ACEC, CMAA, and IPI signifies excellence in project delivery and innovative solutions,” says Jacobs Project Manager Milind Desai. “Fireboat Station 20 is a testament to our commitment to safety, sustainability, and the Long Beach community.”
With its groundbreaking design and commitment to environmental stewardship, Fireboat Station 20 sets a benchmark for future port facilities, ensuring safety, sustainability, and resilience for generations to come.
