Historic South Pasadena 710 Freeway Properties Hit Market After Decades in Limbo

The City of South Pasadena acquired five historic properties previously owned by Caltrans and listed them for sale Tuesday through Realtor Dave Knight, signaling a new chapter for homes once slated for demolition. This move aims to return the long-dormant properties to residential use and generate funds for affordable housing development.

The Dave Knight Real Estate Team of Keller Williams Realty is managing the marketing, open houses, and sales process for these properties.

Knight said that open houses are planned for the coming week.

On February 7, 2024, the South Pasadena City Council authorized the execution of five purchase and sale agreements with Caltrans for these unoccupied historic properties. The homes were among hundreds acquired by Caltrans for the now-defunct 710 freeway extension project.

“We are very excited to be opening the doors again to these time-honored properties in South Pasadena,” said David Way, CEO, The Dave Knight Real Estate Team. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for buyers to acquire these homes, and help restore and return them to their original glory.”

The California Transportation Commission unanimously approved the sale on August 16, 2024, marking the final hurdle before the city could obtain the properties. Escrow closed on September 17, 2024, officially transferring the properties to city ownership.

The five properties now on the market include:

• 216 Fairview Avenue: a single-story, two-bed/one bath home
• 217 Fremont Avenue: a single-story, 3-bed/2.25-bath home
• 225 Fremont Avenue: a single-story 4-bed/2-bath home
• 726 Meridian Avenue: an extra-large multi-family lot with three bungalows
• 1707 Meridian Avenue: a single-story, 2-bed/1 bath home

These homes feature various architectural styles including Craftsman, Spanish Revival, and Mid-Century Modern. The City intends to resell these properties at fair market value.

City staff collaborated with the Dave Knight Real Estate Team to develop a comprehensive marketing and sales strategy. Marketing of the properties began the week of October 7, 2024, with open houses to be announced. Offers on the properties will be accepted until October 25, 2024, with final sales estimated for mid-November.

In compliance with state law, proceeds from the sales will be used to finance affordable housing development within the city.

Prospective buyers can find more information about the properties at daveknightrealestate.com/sopascaltrans or by contacting the Dave Knight Real Estate team at (626) 657-0359 or caltrans@daveknightrealestate.com.

For additional information about the city’s initiatives, visit www.southpasadenaca.gov/senate-bill-381 or contact the Housing Division at housing@southpasadenaca.gov.