The Pasadena City Council voted unanimously on March 2, 2024, to deny an appeal from St. Philip the Apostle Church regarding the construction of a new research and development building by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). The decision came after a lengthy public hearing that lasted until midnight, during which council members heard from developers, opponents, and numerous residents expressing their views on the project.
Caltech plans to build a four-story, 93,539-square-foot facility at the intersection of Green Street and Holliston Avenue. This building will feature subterranean parking and aims to expand laboratory space to support the university’s growing startup ecosystem. The project had previously received concept design approval from the city’s Design Commission in January, a decision that was contested by the church.
The City Council meeting attracted significant public interest, with standing room only in the chambers and additional overflow space set up to accommodate the crowd. According to the city clerk, over 700 letters were submitted opposing the project, while 31 letters expressed support. During the public comment period, nearly 60 individuals spoke, with the majority advocating for the project.
Former City Councilmember Andy Wilson addressed the council, urging them to consider the long-term benefits of the project. “This is a high-value, place-based economic asset that helps our city remain competitive, resilient and relevant,” Wilson stated. “Let’s not let it slip through our fingers.”
In response to community concerns, the project developer, Trammell Crow Company, proposed modifications to the plan, including reducing the building’s height to 73 feet and decreasing the number of subterranean parking spaces from 260 to 200. Caltech representatives emphasized that the project aligns with Pasadena’s zoning code and is consistent with the East Colorado Specific Plan.
Opponents of the project, including church parishioners and local residents, expressed concerns regarding potential environmental impacts. They called for a detailed environmental impact report and questioned why the facility could not be relocated to another area of the city. Attorney Richard McDonald, representing the opponents, argued that despite the project being well-reasoned, it could lead to negative outcomes for the community.
Looking ahead, the final design review remains the last step in the project approval process. Caltech officials estimate that if construction begins in the fall of this year, the new building could be operational by 2028 or 2029. The City Council meeting was streamed live on YouTube, allowing broader public access to the proceedings.
