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Pasadena Set to Adopt $3.28 Billion Capital Plan Focused on Infrastructure, Streets and Utilities

Published on Monday, May 4, 2026 | 5:19 am
 

A sweeping five-year capital improvement plan totaling more than $3.28 billion, outlining hundreds of infrastructure projects aimed at maintaining and upgrading streets, utilities, parks and public facilities across the city could be adopted at Monday’s City Council meeting.

The City Council is expected to vote on the fiscal year 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) following weeks of workshops and public hearings. The plan includes 225 active projects with a combined estimated cost of about $3.28 billion, along with $249 million in proposed spending for fiscal year 2027 alone.

City officials said the program reflects long-term priorities to improve infrastructure, enhance mobility, support sustainability and maintain public safety, though many projects depend on future funding.

The plan also identifies 49 additional projects without funding over the next five years.

Among the key efforts is the Annual Citywide Street Resurfacing and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Improvement Program, which would receive increased funding to resurface about 11 centerline miles of roadway, including the Rose Bowl Loop. The project uses rubberized asphalt and other materials designed to improve durability, reduce noise and extend the life of city streets.

The Street Drainage Improvement Program would expand significantly to address broken or inadequate curbs and gutters across multiple neighborhoods. Officials say the work is needed to improve stormwater flow and reduce localized flooding issues on city streets.

The Guardrail Program would see funding reduced for fiscal year 2027, with resources redirected to higher-priority projects. City staff said existing funds are sufficient to cover anticipated guardrail repairs for the year.

The Annual Sewer System Improvements and Capacity Upgrades Program would receive increased funding to accelerate inspection and rehabilitation work. Crews will clean sewer lines, conduct camera inspections and install liners to strengthen aging infrastructure and prevent failures.

The East Side Storm Drain Project would double its funding allocation to complete a second phase of repairs to one of the city’s oldest drainage systems. The improvements aim to address structural issues and ensure reliable stormwater conveyance.

The Installation of Shade Structures at Citywide Parks project would increase its estimated cost to reflect updated construction estimates. While no funding has yet been allocated, the project is intended to improve comfort and usability at park athletic fields.

The Artificial Turf Replacement Project at Robinson Park and Villa Parke would receive additional funding to fully complete turf replacement at Villa Parke. The upgrades are intended to improve field safety, durability and recreational use.

The Water and Power Office Consolidation Project would have its planned funding removed and deferred to a later date. The project aims to centralize staff operations into a single facility but will not move forward until funding is identified.

The Municipal-Owned Solar Installation Program would receive initial funding to begin development of city-owned renewable energy projects. Officials say the effort is intended to support long-term energy affordability and help transition to carbon-free electricity.

City commissions have largely supported the plan, with multiple advisory bodies voting unanimously to back various project categories. The Planning Commission also found the new projects consistent with the city’s General Plan.

If approved, the CIP will guide Pasadena’s infrastructure investments over the next five years, though officials caution that many projects remain contingent on securing additional funding.

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