Updates from Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station
PODS Construction Management contract awarded
June 2024
The Loon Foundation is pleased to announce that local construction company, Spani Developments Ltd., has been awarded the Construction Management Services contract to build the Pender Harbour Ocean Discover Station (PODS), set to break ground fall of 2024.
An innovative marine research centre, educational facility, and tourist destination, PODS will welcome visitors of all ages to celebrate our region’s remarkable natural history and heritage. This community hub will provide attractions for the whole family, including immersive, interactive exhibits and mind-blowing displays about life in the Salish Sea using state-of-the art audio-visual technologies.
PODS will create welcome new employment opportunities, increase revenues for local businesses year-round, and provide a world-class educational research facility. PODS will support social connection through a variety of cultural and scientific programs as well as a packed calendar of events throughout the year, including workshops, conferences, social gatherings, and arts performances. Dr Michael Jackson, Executive Director of the Loon Foundation explained, “PODS has taken ten years to design and the commitment and passion of all those involved in the project since 2014 has been quite extraordinary! We are extremely proud to say that as a result PODS will be one of the most futuristic and greenest buildings ever built in BC!”
Spani’s affinity for the ocean runs deep, and marine construction is ingrained in their DNA. The objective of PODS to inform, educate, and safeguard marine environments against the impacts of climate change resonates profoundly with Spani Developments, ensuring the preservation of our coastlines and ocean for future generations. Owner Doug Spani believes, “This project is truly unparalleled, not just within the Sunshine Coast but on a global scale. Every aspect, from the architectural design to material selection, presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Spani Developments—a prospect that excites our entire team.”
Superintendent Andrew Wood adds, “PODS will draw international attention to Pender Harbour, providing a significant and much-needed boost to the local economy. Most importantly PODS will inspire our younger generations here to widen their horizons and hopefully to become future stewards of our ocean and environment.”
The search for a Construction Manager, which began on April 2nd, 2024, was extremely competitive with seven very strong proposals. The Loon Foundation would like to thank all respondents for their significant efforts in preparing the proposals and attending meetings. The Loon Foundation would also like to thank David Nairne & Associates Ltd. for their continued work in facilitating this complex and integral process.