Caltech Research Building Faces Community Opposition Ahead of Review

The proposed four-story research building by Caltech is expected to encounter significant opposition during the Pasadena Design Commission’s review meeting on January 27, 2024. The project, located at 1364 E. Green St., has raised concerns among local residents, particularly from the nearby St. Philip the Apostle Church and school community.

City officials have recommended approval of the building’s concept design, which encompasses 93,539 square feet of space and includes 260 subterranean parking spaces. However, the commission previously voted to continue the review, indicating that further discussion is necessary before a final decision can be made.

The project has sparked controversy primarily due to its plan to remove two protected trees: a California fan palm and an incense cedar. The Urban Forestry Advisory Committee approved this removal in September, but community members have expressed their discontent over the loss of these trees.

Caltech describes the building, referred to as the “innovation center,” as a facility designed to support the university’s expanding startup ecosystem. According to the institution, the center aims to minimize any potential impacts on traffic, air quality, or noise while enhancing job opportunities and economic benefits for the surrounding community.

Opposition to the project has been vocal. The December commission meeting saw representatives from the St. Philip community raise concerns regarding traffic congestion, security, privacy, and the building’s size. An online petition opposing the project has garnered over 1,300 signatures as of January 23, demonstrating substantial community discontent. Additionally, the city has received more than a dozen written comments expressing concerns about the proposed development.

In a letter dated January 23, Pastor Tony Gomez noted that a group of parishioners with planning and development expertise conducted a thorough review of the proposal. Their findings led to the conclusion that the parish could no longer support the project in its current form. Gomez encouraged parishioners and school parents to attend the upcoming commission meeting to share their concerns.

The special meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Pasadena Convention Center, located at 300 E. Green St.. The outcome of this review could significantly impact the future of the Caltech research building project and its implications for the surrounding community.