Birch Aquarium Living Seas project
Summary
SCH Number
2024080066
Public Agency
University of California
Document Title
Birch Aquarium Living Seas project
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
8/2/2024
Document Description
The Proposed project consists of renovation of approximately 14,000 GSF, including the existing “Hall of Fishes” Exhibit Gallery to create the “Living Seas” Gallery within the same interior footprint and would replace and relocate existing exhibit tanks and create five new exhibit tanks: the Jellyfish Tumbler, Giant Pacific Octopus, Pier Pilings, Pelagic and Coral Reefs, and Mangroves. The proposed scope would also include upgrades to mechanical, electrical and plumbing infrastructure to support the Living Seas exhibit elements; addition of automatic sprinkler and fire alarm systems; and new interpretive signage, finishes, and audio-visual systems. No exterior modifications are required.
Contact Information
Name
Brian Harrington
Agency Name
University of California
Job Title
Director of Physical and Environmental Planning
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Location
Cities
san, San Diego
Counties
San Diego
Regions
Southern California
Other Information
Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301, Existing Facilities and 15302, Replacement or Reconstruction
Reasons for Exemption
The project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under a Class 1, Existing Facilities (CEQA Guidelines Section 15301) because it consists of the renovation of an existing structure with negligible expansion of an existing use. On a separate and independent basis, the project is also categorically exempt pursuant to Class 2, Replacement or Reconstruction (CEQA Guidelines Section 15302) because as it would replace aging components of an existing facility. No exceptions to the exemptions apply per CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2.
Attachments
Notice of Exemption
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