To celebrate Longfellow’s first ever ground-up development, a celebratory event was held on-site to give a glimpse of the Bioterra project. The aesthetic featured warm earthy elements with a modern feel in a fun, social environment that previews the ambiance that future tenants can expect when the project delivers. The dirt lot was transformed with bamboo belly bars and fringe umbrellas juxtaposed with construction equipment and piles of debris.

Guests enjoyed a morning menu including wellness shots, light cocktails, a coffee cart and brunch bites. Tunes were cranked out by a DJ with live instruments to add to the ambiance, connection and enjoyment.

With a great line-up of speakers including former mayor Jerry Sanders, San Diego City officials and building collaborators witnessed the traditional ceremonial ‘shovels in ground’. In attendance was celebrity chef Richard Blais, who just opened a restaurant at Longfellow’s Biovista property down the street.

“As San Diego continues to develop and draw the world’s top talent in life science and biotech innovation, much of that growth has been right here in Sorrento Mesa and Sorrento Valley. Today’s groundbreaking at Bioterra is a result of Longfellow’s commitment to building a world-class innovation ecosystem in this community,” said San Diego City Councilmember Chris Cate. “I look forward to Longfellow’s continued investment in the region as we work together to create the 21st century infrastructure our city and economy demands.”