Murrieta City Council approves $3.1M construction contract for Innovation Center upgrades

Murrieta City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing its entrepreneurial landscape by approving a contract for tenant improvements at the Murrieta Innovation Center (MIC). During the meeting on February 18, 2025, the council awarded a construction contract to Optima RPM for $3.1 million, aimed at transforming the MIC into a premier incubator for life sciences and medical technology startups.

The MIC, established in 2012, serves as a vital hub for innovation in Southwest Riverside County, currently housing four physical startups and ten virtual companies. The recent approval follows a $2.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, which will fund renovations to create state-of-the-art wet and dry lab spaces, offices, and collaborative areas. The project is expected to bolster job creation and support the growth of local businesses in the biotech sector.

The construction process will adhere to federal guidelines, including a formal bidding process that attracted 40 general contractors. Optima RPM emerged as the lowest bidder, despite a protest regarding its licensing, which was resolved in favor of the contractor. The council also approved a $155,000 purchase order for construction management services to ensure compliance with labor regulations.

In total, the project budget has been adjusted to approximately $4.3 million, slightly exceeding initial estimates but still within acceptable limits. The council's decision reflects a commitment to fostering economic development and supporting the startup community in Murrieta.

As the city moves forward with these improvements, the MIC is poised to enhance its role as a catalyst for innovation and economic growth in the region, promising a brighter future for local entrepreneurs and the community at large.