2 Updated High-Tech Parks on Way : Pomona, Calabasas to Have ‘Second Generation’ Centers

Two “second-generation” high-technology business centers, valued at nearly $50 million, are under construction in Calabasas and Pomona in joint ventures with Ahmanson Commercial Development Co.

The $26-million Calabasas Tech Center, a seven-building, 20-acre project near Agoura and Las Virgenes roads in Calabasas, is being built by Ahmanson and Jaric Developers & Contractors, Los Angeles.

Designed by the Irvine-based architectural firm of Ware & Malcomb, the project will offer 260,000 square feet of space in one- and two-story buildings in a setting adjacent to the Las Virgenes Creek Natural Refuge, according to Reed Tetrick of Jaric.

Phase 2 of the $19-million University Tech Center, a 10-acre corporate and technology business park in Pomona, is being developed by Ahmanson and California Structures of San Diego. The total project, developed in two phases at Temple Avenue and the Orange (57) Freeway, will have three buildings and 142,000 square feet of space. The architect is Hill-Pinckert, Irvine, and the contractor is Keller Construction Co., El Monte.

Higher Standard

“Both projects represent a second generation in high-technology and corporate business parks,” according to Kent Marselis, president of Ahmanson Commercial Development. “The standard of architecture and planning is substantially higher than in the past, to meet the growing demand for more quality work environments in this industry.”

The Pomona project will meet the expanding needs for office and research and development space in the San Gabriel Valley, as well as accommodate corporate movement east from Pasadena, he added.

The Calabasas project is in the Ventura Freeway research and development corridor, where construction is booming. Buildings in the project offer maximum flexibility to users, combining office space with warehouse or industrial uses, according to Tetrick.