Lead Contamination Concerns Prompt Closures and Precautionary Measures in Pasadena Parks

Non-native ornamental grass, palms, and other water-intensive landscaping surround Pasadena City Hall
(Photo – Wes Reutimann)

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) has raised concerns about elevated lead levels in soil samples taken from two Pasadena neighborhoods. The findings, announced on April 10, 2025, revealed that soil in these areas contained lead concentrations exceeding the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) screening threshold of 80 parts per million (ppm).

By News Desk

The two neighborhoods affected are generally bounded by Lincoln Avenue, Washington Boulevard, North Altadena Drive, and the city limits on the east side, and by North Altadena Drive, Orange Grove Boulevard, Washington Boulevard, and Eaton Drive on the west side. While these elevated levels do not immediately call for cleanup or remediation, they do suggest the need for further evaluation to assess the potential risks to public health.

Preventive Measure

Exposure to lead-contaminated soil is particularly dangerous for young children, who may ingest or inhale lead particles by putting their hands in their mouths or by consuming soil. Lead poisoning can have serious long-term effects, especially in children under six years old, who are most vulnerable. Lead dust can also be carried indoors on shoes or clothing, further increasing the risk of exposure.

As a preventive measure, the Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) has initiated strategies to reduce potential risks, particularly in areas where children are likely to play on exposed soil. Until further soil testing is completed, the City of Pasadena has closed the baseball infields at Washington Park and Victory Park, where elevated lead levels have been detected.

Park Closures and Testing

In addition to the closures at Washington and Victory Park, the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services (PRCS) Department has committed to testing soil at three other local parks — Robinson Park, Hamilton Park, and Alice’s Dog Park — as a precautionary measure. While these parks are outside the affected neighborhoods, they will undergo soil testing to ensure the safety of all visitors. Despite these efforts, the parks will remain open during the testing process.

“We are taking proactive steps to help ensure that our parks are safe for all visitors, especially young children who are most vulnerable to lead exposure,” said Koko Panossian, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services. “Our community’s health and safety remain our top priority as we work closely with public health officials to help keep our parks a healthy and welcoming place for families to gather, play, and connect.”

Recommendations for Parks and Sports Fields

The PPHD has outlined several important recommendations for parks and youth sports fields with exposed soil. These guidelines are aimed at reducing potential lead exposure in the interim period before further testing or remediation can take place:

• All fields with exposed soil should be closed off using signs, fencing, or other barriers to prevent children and youth sports leagues from accessing the area.
• Activities on improved surfaces such as concrete or asphalt, as well as areas with ground covers like grass or mulch, may remain open.
• Youth sports activities, including practices and games, should be suspended or relocated to safer areas.
• Handwashing stations with soap and water should be provided to ensure that children and adults can wash away any lead-contaminated dust from their hands.

These recommendations are intended to be implemented in the affected Pasadena neighborhoods and may also be beneficial to other parks and youth sports activities within the city.

Free Blood Lead Testing Available

As part of ongoing public health efforts, individuals concerned about potential lead exposure can access free blood lead testing services. Options include:

1. Visit Your Medical Provider — Blood lead testing is covered by most insurance plans, including Medi-Cal.
2. Quest Lab Free Blood Lead Test — Call 1-800-LA-4-LEAD for a free appointment at a Quest Lab.
3. Mobile Blood Lead Testing: — The LACDPH will be offering free mobile blood lead testing at the following event:
   Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
   Time: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
   Location: Eaton Health Village, Pasadena Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 1280 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91104.

The public is encouraged to take advantage of these testing services to ensure their health and safety in the wake of the soil contamination findings.

For more information on lead exposure and health resources, the public can visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website or the Fire Safety and Health information website.