Some of the vacant Caltrans properties (Photo – pasadenacaltransproperties.com)
The City of Pasadena has made progress in its initiative to revitalize vacant Caltrans properties, turning them into a vital funding source for affordable housing development. Following City Council approval in June, the sale of 17 properties, previously slated for demolition under the State Route 710 (SR-710) North project, will generate essential funds for affordable housing in Pasadena.
By News Desk
The City’s initiative is based on SB 959, a state law granting Pasadena priority in purchasing surplus residential properties within the city at their original Caltrans acquisition price. Under this plan, the proceeds from these property sales will be dedicated to affordable housing development, with the City committing to fund three affordable units for every Caltrans unit purchased.
“We are excited that these properties are finally going to market to generate much-needed affordable housing funds,” said James Wong, Pasadena’s Housing Director. “This effort is an essential step towards addressing our housing needs while also preserving Pasadena’s architectural legacy.”
Four Smaller Homes to be Sold for Affordable Homeownership Projects
Among the 17 properties, four smaller, non-historic homes have been identified as ideal candidates for affordable homeownership projects. The remaining 13 properties will be sold through a competitive market process, with the assistance of local real estate brokers such as DPP | Compass, Sotheby’s International Realty, and Mutual Realty Consultants.
The first set of properties will be listed the week of September 28, 2025, with additional listings scheduled for October. Each property will be sold in its current condition, with buyers subject to deed restrictions requiring necessary repairs and occupancy within a reasonable timeframe.
A Long-Awaited Opportunity for Pasadena
This sale marks a significant milestone in Pasadena’s ongoing efforts to address the housing crisis. Many of these homes have been vacant for decades and are located in historically significant parts of the city. Experts believe their restoration will not only enhance local communities but also revitalize Pasadena’s iconic neighborhoods.
“After decades of sitting vacant, 13 Caltrans homes are finally being offered to the public, giving potential buyers the opportunity to restore properties within designated historical sections of the city,” said Bill Podley, a real estate professional with DPP | Compass. “This process will help bring these homes back to life and revitalize neighborhoods in the process.”
As the city moves forward with the sale, there is growing anticipation about the potential to restore these properties and make them integral to Pasadena’s future. Michael B. Bell from Sotheby’s International Realty echoed this sentiment, stating, “Pasadena has long been known for its architectural legacy, and these homes have been eagerly awaited by the public. To be entrusted with presenting them to the market is both a privilege and a responsibility that I take very seriously.”
Initial Property Listings
The first set of properties to hit the market include:
- 269 Palmetto Drive
- 696 St. John Avenue
- 734 St. John Avenue
- 888 Pasadena Avenue
- 894 & 894B Pasadena Avenue
- 1112 Pasadena Avenue
- 1200 Pasadena Avenue
- 215 Madeline Drive
- 218 Madeline Drive
- 225 State Street
Additional properties slated for future sale include:
- 584 St. John Avenue & 230/230 A California Boulevard
- 180 State Street
- 237 State Street
For more information on these properties and details about the purchase process, visit PasadenaCaltransProperties.com. The website offers virtual tours, photographs, and property details, with showings scheduled at designated times once buyers meet the required criteria.
A Renewed Vision for Pasadena
As the City of Pasadena moves forward with this initiative, the sale of these Caltrans properties represents more than just a real estate transaction, it’s an investment in the future of the community.
Michael Slaughter from Mutual Realty Consultants emphasized the civic importance of the effort: “Pasadena’s architectural beauty has always reflected its civic spirit, and today’s release of these homes is a moment to rise to the challenge with heart. This is more than real estate; it is about renewal, stewardship, and ensuring that these properties once again serve families and strengthen the community.”
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