Western Research Center Built for Biotech in Richmond

Simeon Properties is planning to redevelop the 86-acre former Zenica site in Richmond, Calif., to build the $100 million Western Research Center, a multi-phase biotech incubator. The first $50-million, 330,000-sf phase will involve demolishing six buildings, moving two existing buildings and building two additional facilities. The second phase will encompass 180,000 sf in two more buildings. A possible third phase, dependent on an entitlement from the City of Richmond and environmental remediation, would open up the remaining 55 acres. Not limited to biotech, the site may include high-end greenhouse space totalling 27,000 sf for life science and agricultural applications. The city of Richmond is working to raise the $1,500,000 necessary to earn federal incubator funds.