Fuller Theological Seminary Seeks Major Changes to Its Master Plan in Pasadena

Fuller Theological Seminary has proposed significant amendments to its Master Plan in Pasadena, potentially reshaping its presence in the city. The Planning Commission will review the proposal at a public hearing on Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, Room S249 at City Hall.

The seminary aims to revise its master plan boundaries to include only 15 “core” properties, down from its current larger footprint. This change would concentrate Fuller’s operations in a smaller area of Pasadena.

A key aspect of the proposal involves subdividing the property at 261 N. Madison Avenue into two parcels. Fuller is seeking to change the zoning and land use designation for one of these new lots.

The proposed zoning change would shift the parcel from Public-Semi Public to Central District Residential Multi-Family (CD-RM-87). Simultaneously, the land use designation would change from Institutional to Medium Mixed Use Residential.

These alterations could pave the way for future residential development on the site, though no specific plans have been announced. The seminary is also seeking to terminate its existing development agreement with the city.

Under the proposed amendments, 14 “non-core” properties owned by Fuller would remain subject to the master plan. This arrangement would continue until these properties are sold or leased for purposes unrelated to the seminary.

The city’s Department of Planning and Community Development is recommending that the Planning Commission recommend approval of the changes to the City Council, including the Master Plan amendment, zoning modifications, and cancellation of the development agreement. They also support the tentative parcel map to subdivide the Madison Avenue property.

The Planning Commission’s decision will serve as a recommendation to the Pasadena City Council. The council will later hold its own public hearing to make a final determination on the proposed changes.

Fuller Theological Seminary’s Master Plan area is currently bounded by Corson Street and the 210 Freeway to the north, Union Street to the south, Madison Avenue to the east, and Los Robles Avenue to the west.