The creators of Bergamot Station Arts Center have entered into an agreement with the Port of Los Angeles to transform two 1940s-era warehouses into a bustling crafts center to be called Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles.  The Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners today approved a 25-year lease agreement that enables Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles Ltd. to operate the marketplace along the heart of the San Pedro Waterfront, located near Cabrillo Way Marina and 22nd Street Park.

“The creative team behind Bergamot Station has developed a wonderfully unique concept and they have a track record of success,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Geraldine Knatz, Ph.D. “Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles will bring a new mix of visitors and more interest to the burgeoning LA Waterfront.”

“Crafted will showcase high-quality handmade items from local Southern California artisans against the magnificent backdrop of the working waterfront,” said Wayne Blank, President of Bergamot Station Ltd and majority partner of Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles Ltd. “The Harbor Area is a hidden jewel and we think Crafted at the Port of Los Angles will attract both residents and visitors to experience the artistry and beauty of the waterfront.”

Crafted will host a community of one-of-a-kind local artists, handmade goods, gourmet concessions, live music and entertainment. The unique marketplace plans to offer free admission, ample parking, public restrooms and ATMs for convenience.

The planned indoor venue boasts 140,000 square feet between both warehouses, with 500 vendor stalls, spacious aisles and natural lighting, plus a large outdoor courtyard. At full occupancy, it is estimated that the marketplace could attract up to 500,000 annual visitors to the LA Waterfront. Select juried artists at Crafted will lease spaces to sell their own original items year-round.

Port of Los Angeles Warehouses 9 & 10 are currently vacant but were used until a few years ago to store general cargo. The Port then requested bids for a unique redeveloper to retain the maritime and industrial history of the vintage, wood-frame structures, and revitalize the warehouses to accommodate vibrant, new visitor-serving uses that complement existing and future development of the San Pedro Waterfront.