Burlingame Waterfront Development

The Burlingame Waterfront Development redesigns an existing airport parking lot into a new science and office campus that exemplifies a low-carbon resilience approach, offering a sustainable blueprint for coastal projects. Located south of San Francisco, this initiative not only fosters job creation but also presents a unique opportunity to restore the shoreline edge of the Anza Lagoon, promoting habitat preservation and biodiversity.

The updated shoreline plan will elevate to safeguard against anticipated sea-level rise, aligning with end-of-century projections. Along the new Bay Trail, visitors can enjoy amenities like terraced seating, native gardens, outdoor spaces, and an expansive plaza offering panoramic views of the Bay.

Recognizing the site’s vulnerability to sea level rise, the development prioritizes a living shoreline approach, minimizing the use of high-intensity concrete and steel seawalls. By incorporating native plants, the project enhances carbon sequestration and biodiversity, contributing to the ecological health of the area.

The development reduces emissions by 45% compared to business as usual practices and is projected to offset its carbon footprint on-site within just four years. This holistic approach to sustainability sets a precedent for future coastal developments, demonstrating how thoughtful design and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.