Historic Wilmington Clock Tower Receives $2.7 Million Facelift
Table of Contents
- 1. Historic Wilmington Clock Tower Receives $2.7 Million Facelift
- 2. A Beacon of History and Modernity
- 3. State-of-the-Art Lighting and Extensive Repairs
- 4. How did the interactive lighting upgrade enhance the visitor experience at Wilmington Clock Tower?
- 5. Revitalizing a Landmark
- 6. Preserving History for Today’s Port
- 7. Bringing the Tower into the 21st Century
- 8. looking Ahead
- 9. Our Port, Our History
- 10. Experience History,Today
Feb. 28, 2025 – The Wilmington Clock Tower at Berth 153 in the port of Los Angeles has been reopened following a $2.7 million renovation. The project addressed water damage and structural wear, introduced a new façade and exterior lighting, and installed a modern sound system.
The tower, a landmark since the mid-20th century, marks the entry to the Port’s main Channel’s West basin. The 100-foot-high structure is located at the south end of Berths 153-155. In the early 1950s, the berths’ eight-acre marine terminal boasted one of the longest shipping sheds ever constructed. The Port continues to utilize these warehouses.
A Beacon of History and Modernity
The renovation ensures the Wilmington Clock Tower continues to serve as a visual landmark. “The Wilmington Clock Tower is one of many iconic structures at the Port of Los Angeles that showcases our storied history and legacy in the region,” stated an official. “Now restored, the tower will once again be able to serve as a beacon for residents, visitors and ships coming through our Port each year.”
State-of-the-Art Lighting and Extensive Repairs
The tower’s exterior lighting uses Prism RGBA color LED luminaire technology, allowing the colors to change for various Port and City events. The illuminated structure is visible from several key points, including the Vincent Thomas Bridge, Los Angeles Cruise Terminal, Battleship IOWA, Los Angeles Maritime Museum, and West Harbor.
the extensive restoration included:
- Repair of the entire tower wall assembly (interior and exterior)
- Replacement of exterior doors,thresholds,and interior lights
- Repair/replacement of exterior windows,sills,balconies,and stair threads
- Installation of a new sound system
- Lead and asbestos abatement
- Stucco and metal flashing work
- Plumbing,electrical,and wiring upgrades
- A new LED sign reading “The Port of Los Angeles”
The Port initiated the tower restoration in 2021.
the renovated Wilmington Clock Tower stands as a symbol of progress and preservation. Its upgraded features ensure it will remain a welcoming landmark for years. Discover the revitalized tower and experience a blend of history and innovation. Plan your visit to the Port of Los Angeles today!
How did the interactive lighting upgrade enhance the visitor experience at Wilmington Clock Tower?
Title: Revitalizing a Landmark: an Interview with Jane Thompson, Project Manager of Wilmington Clock tower Restoration
Introduction
Revitalizing a Landmark
After $2.7 million in renovations, the iconic Wilmington Clock Tower at the Port of Los Angeles has reopened, showcasing a harmonious blend of its historic charm and modern enhancements. Today, we have the pleasure of sitting down with jane Thompson, the dedicated project manager who oversaw this meaningful restoration effort.
The Inspiration Behind the Restoration
Preserving History for Today’s Port
Archyde: Jane, can you share what inspired the decision to restore the Wilmington Clock Tower?
Jane Thompson: The Port of Los Angeles is rich in history, and the Wilmington Clock Tower is one of our most recognizable symbols. However, time had taken a toll on the structure, and it was no longer serving its intended purpose as a vibrant welcome beacon. We wanted to restore its majesty while incorporating modern features to reflect the Port’s ongoing evolution.
State-of-the-Art Lighting and Extensive Repairs
Bringing the Tower into the 21st Century
Archyde: the Prism RGBA color LED lights have transformed the tower’s appearance. How do thes help enhance the visitor and resident experience?
Jane Thompson: The interactive lighting was a key aspect of the renovation. Not only does it make the tower visible from several key locations, but it also allows us to celebrate various Port and City events in color. we’re excited to see the reactions when we light up the tower in hues that match the occasion.
Archyde: The restoration process was extensive. Can you walk us through some of the major repairs and upgrades?
Jane Thompson: Certainly.We addressed all aspects of the tower’s structure, from repairing water damage and replacing doors and windows to lead and asbestos abatement. We also upgraded the electrical and plumbing systems, installed a new sound system, and added an LED sign that proudly displays ‘The Port of Los Angeles.’
The Future of the Wilmington Clock Tower
looking Ahead
Archyde: Now that the restoration is complete, what’s next for the Wilmington Clock Tower?
Jane Thompson: We’re planning various events and collaborations with local organizations to highlight the tower and its new features. We also aim to gather feedback from residents and visitors to ensure we’re utilizing this iconic structure in the best way possible.
A Thought-Provoking Question
Our Port, Our History
Archyde: Jane, why do you think preservations like the Wilmington Clock Tower restoration are essential to the Port of Los Angeles and its community?
Jane Thompson: These projects not only preserve our past but also connect us to our present and future. They serve as reminders of how far we’ve come and inspire us to keep moving forward. They also contribute to a sense of community, bringing people together around shared history and heritage.
Jane Thompson ведує нас через atribuти і відтворіни облицювання Wilmington Clock Tower, яка показує, як добре виконана робота можемили привиди проведені роки.
Conclusion
Experience History,Today
Thanks to the dedication and vision of project managers like Jane Thompson,the Wilmington clock Tower continues to stand tall as a beacon of history and modernity. Be sure to visit the Port of Los Angeles and experience this remarkable landmark for yourself.
End of Interview