City Officials Seek Residents Input Proposed Transformation of Former Kaiser Permanente Site

Pasadena City officials announced a community meeting to gather public input on the future development of a 2.38-acre former Kaiser Permanente property at 434-470 North Lake Avenue.

In making the announcement, officials said the City is committed to incorporating residents’ voices in the planning process. The event will provide an opportunity for the community to learn about the property’s potential development and the North Lake Specific Plan, which outlines standards that promote development distinctive to the character of North Lake Avenue.

The meeting, set for Thursday, March 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Lake Avenue Church.

“The City of Pasadena is dedicated to creating a vibrant and sustainable future for this neighborhood, and we need your voice to make it happen,” the announcement said.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from City officials and participate in discussions that will influence the development direction.

The site is being developed as part of a comprehensive plan to create a hub for healthcare, mental health services, and affordable housing within what has been identified as an underserved community.

Mayor Victor Gordo previously highlighted this broader vision, stating: “To have these services right here in the midst of so many seniors, but also offer services in northern Pasadena, all of Pasadena, including Altadena, is a tremendous, tremendous victory.”

The City declared the property as “surplus property” in July 2024, which was a necessary procedural step under the State Surplus Land Act.

Earlier, in March 2024, city officials had issued a Request for Information (RFI), seeking responses from qualified development firms interested in designing, planning, financing, and developing the property. The RFI emphasized a mixed-use development featuring housing, a minimum of 15,000 square feet of office space, and neighborhood-serving retail.

The City purchased the property in late 2023, with the acquisition process completed when the city closed escrow and took formal ownership in November 2023. The purchase utilized funding from the congressional stimulus bill, with a price cap of $12 million.

Originally constructed in 1976 as a medical clinic, the building was featured in Masonry Magazine for its distinctive use of masonry and cantilevered wing walls. After Kaiser Permanente vacated the location, it remained unused for more than a decade prior to recent revitalization efforts.

Parking for the March 27 event is available in the church lot. Signage and balloons will guide attendees to the Church’s Rose Room on the second floor of the Family Life Center.