Can a Pasadena Catholic School Win Against CalTech's Construction Plans?

This article discusses the concerns raised by a Catholic school in Pasadena regarding a planned construction project by CalTech. The project, set for a rarely used parking lot near St. Philip the Apostle Church, aims to create a large research facility but has sparked worries among parents and community members about safety, traffic, and environmental impacts.

Last updated: 15 October 2023 (BST)

Overview of the Controversy

CalTech's proposal to develop a new research facility on an underused parking lot at the corner of Green Street and Holliston Avenue has ignited significant concern among local residents and the St. Philip the Apostle Church community. The facility is planned to be a 93,000 square-foot structure, raising alarms about potential noise, dust, and safety hazards for the children attending the nearby school.

Key Takeaways

• The new facility is proposed to be built on a rarely used parking lot adjacent to St. Philip the Apostle Church.
• Concerns include safety, increased traffic, noise, and the lack of environmental reviews.
• CalTech aims to enhance the community with the new facility, which they see as a positive development.
• The city of Pasadena states that the project is still in the design review phase and will have further evaluation in November.
• Community members are encouraged to voice their concerns about the project's impact.

Community Concerns

Parents and school officials have expressed their worries regarding the construction's implications. Christina Blacker, a parent at St. Philip, highlighted that the transitional kindergarten classroom is only 88 feet away from the proposed site. The proximity raises significant health and safety concerns, particularly regarding noise and dust exposure during construction.

In response to these worries, St. Philip's leadership has communicated with the community, urging them to address their concerns. The email sent to parents emphasised the size of the project and the potential hazards associated with it, stating, "Between the size, safety concerns, and lack of environmental review, we are not comfortable with this build." These concerns have resonated with many parents, who fear for the well-being of their children in light of the proposed changes.

CalTech's Vision

CalTech, alongside the Trammell Crow Company, views the construction project as an opportunity to revitalise an underutilised area. Shayna Chabner McKinney, Chief Communications and External Relations Officer at CalTech, described the project as a chance to bring "another layer of vitality and opportunity" to the community. She stressed their commitment to addressing community concerns and expressed a willingness to engage in further discussions with local stakeholders.

The university has already begun conversations with school leadership and nearby residents regarding the innovation corridor and the Green Street commercial centre. McKinney noted, "We've met with the school leadership, we've met with other neighbours, and we'd love to continue that conversation and discussion." This dialogue indicates CalTech's intent to consider community feedback in their planning process.

The City's Position

The city of Pasadena has issued a statement regarding the project, asserting that new structures have been built on the St. Philip site within the last 5 to 10 years and that similar construction is permissible on adjacent sites. They also clarified that if any church or school buildings nearby are eligible for historic designation, the proposed project would not hinder that designation process.

Furthermore, the city confirmed that the project remains in the design review phase and is scheduled to be presented before the design commission in November. This stage allows for further evaluation and community input, giving residents an opportunity to voice their concerns formally.

Potential Impacts of the Project

The construction of the new facility could have various implications for the local community. Increased traffic is a significant concern, as the addition of a research facility may lead to a rise in vehicles, impacting the safety and accessibility of the area around the school and church.

Additionally, there are worries about noise and environmental impacts during the construction phase. Construction activities can generate dust and noise, which may disrupt the learning environment for students at St. Philip. Parents like Blacker are particularly apprehensive about how these factors could affect their children's health.

Safety and Environmental Reviews

One of the primary concerns raised by the community is the lack of comprehensive environmental reviews. Such reviews are essential to assess the potential impacts of construction on local air quality, noise levels, and overall community health. Community members are advocating for a thorough evaluation to ensure that the project aligns with safety and environmental standards.

What Happens Next?

As the project moves forward, there are several key steps that will take place. The design commission meeting in November will be a critical juncture where community concerns can be formally presented and addressed. Residents are encouraged to participate in this process to ensure their voices are heard.

CalTech's commitment to engaging with the community could also play a significant role in shaping the project's final design. Ongoing discussions between the university, local leaders, and residents may lead to adjustments that mitigate some of the concerns raised.

Conclusion

The proposed construction project by CalTech has brought to light significant concerns among the St. Philip the Apostle Church community regarding safety, noise, and environmental impacts. As this situation evolves, the importance of community engagement and thorough reviews cannot be understated. It remains to be seen how the discussions between CalTech and local stakeholders will influence the project's outcome and address the valid concerns raised by parents and residents.

As the city prepares for the design commission meeting in November, the community's participation will be crucial in shaping the future of this project and ensuring that it aligns with the needs and safety of all residents. How will CalTech address these concerns going forward? #PasadenaConstruction #CalTech #CommunityEngagement

FAQs

What is the purpose of the new construction project by CalTech?

The project aims to build a 93,000 square-foot research facility on a rarely used parking lot to enhance the community and provide new opportunities for research and innovation.

What are the main concerns expressed by the community?

Community concerns include safety hazards for children, increased traffic, noise, dust during construction, and the lack of thorough environmental reviews.

When will the project go before the design commission?

The project is scheduled to go before the design commission in November, allowing community members to voice their concerns formally.

How can residents express their concerns about the project?

Residents can participate in the upcoming design commission meeting and engage in discussions with CalTech and local leaders to express their concerns and suggestions.

What steps are being taken to address community concerns?

CalTech has initiated conversations with school leadership and community members to discuss concerns and is open to feedback that could influence the project's design and implementation.