A proposed four-story research building from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is set to face significant opposition at a design review meeting on January 27, 2024. The Pasadena Design Commission will deliberate on the concept design for the facility, which is located adjacent to St. Philip the Apostle Church and school. Concerns over traffic, security, privacy, and the overall size of the building have sparked dissent within the local community.
Last month, the Design Commission opted to postpone the review of the project, which encompasses 93,539 square feet and includes 260 subterranean parking spaces. Despite recommendations for approval from city officials, the plan has drawn scrutiny due to its environmental impact, particularly the planned removal of two protected trees: a California fan palm and an incense cedar. This removal was previously sanctioned by the Urban Forestry Advisory Committee.
The proposed site for the Caltech research and development facility is situated at 1364 E. Green St., near the intersection of Holliston Avenue. The project, referred to as the Innovation Center, aims to support the university’s expanding startup ecosystem by providing research and development office space along with laboratory facilities. According to Caltech, the building is designed to minimize potential negative effects on traffic, air quality, and noise, while enhancing job opportunities and economic benefits for the local area.
At a December meeting, community members from St. Philip the Apostle Church voiced their concerns regarding the implications of the project. In a letter dated January 23, 2024, Pastor Tony Gomez stated that following a review of the proposal by a group of parishioners with expertise in planning and development, the church could no longer support the project as it currently stands. He encouraged congregation members and parents of students attending the school to express their concerns during the upcoming meeting.
An online petition opposing the project has gained traction since its initiation in September, amassing over 1,300 signatures as of the latest reports. The city has received more than a dozen written comments from the public regarding the proposed construction.
The special meeting is scheduled to take place at 6:30 p.m. at the Pasadena Convention Center, located at 300 E. Green St.. The outcome of this meeting will determine whether the project can proceed, or if further modifications will be required to address the community’s concerns. As tensions rise, the future of the Innovation Center remains uncertain.