Seismic Retrofits at Central Library May Require Removal or Relocation of 28 Trees, Pasadena Says

[Updated]  Pasadena’s Urban Forestry Advisory Committee will consider a proposal Wednesday to remove or relocate 28 trees as part of an earthquake retrofit project at the city’s historic Central Library.

The Committee will review the Department of Public Works’ recommendation during its regular meeting at 6 p.m. at City Yards (233 W Mountain St, 2nd Floor Room 220) . The tree removal is needed to accommodate seismic upgrades and accessibility improvements at the nearly century-old building.

The Central Library, built in 1927 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been closed since May 2021 after assessments revealed it doesn’t comply with the city’s seismic safety codes as an unreinforced masonry structure.

“The removal of the trees will allow for 13 new trees to be planted,” according to a memorandum from the Public Works Department.

The proposal calls for removing 11 Crepe Myrtle trees in the north parking lot to create angled parking spaces and improve ADA accessibility. (“In addition to the parking space improvements, the removal of the trees will allow for 13 new trees to be planted,” according to a memorandum from the Public Works Department.)

 Four Windmill Palm trees would be removed to enhance the North Entrance pathway, and are proposed to be replaced with Mediterranean palm. Eight King Palm trees and five Mediterranean Palm trees located around the North and South Entrances, respectively would be relocated adjacent to their original spaces if feasible in order to accommodate the construction improvements.

Public Works officials said preserving and repairing the Central Library aligns with Pasadena’s General Plan Land Use Element, which emphasizes protecting historic resources.

The City awarded the retrofit project to Gruen Associates in early 2023 following a competitive process. The project aims to improve the building’s seismic performance while preserving its historic character and allowing for its eventual reopening.

Wednesday’s meeting of the Urban Forestry Advisory Committee begins at 6 p.m. at 233 W. Mountain Street, 2nd Floor, Room 220. It is open to the public.