Allendale Library (Photo – .cityofpasadena.net)
Recent soil sampling across six Pasadena parks shows that lead and other heavy metal levels are well below state and federal safety thresholds, prompting officials to lift previous health-related restrictions on park use.
By News Desk
The City of Pasadena conducted soil testing at Alice’s Dog Park, Allendale Park, Hamilton Park, Robinson Park, Washington Park, and Victory Park following a Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) report earlier this month that identified elevated lead levels in two residential neighborhoods.
All test results from the parks came back below the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) screening threshold of 80 parts per million (ppm) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) threshold of 200 ppm. The highest lead level found was 51.9 ppm at Washington Park’s tree area, while the lowest was 1.6 ppm at Robinson Park’s North Ball Field.
“These test results demonstrate there is no evidence that levels of lead or other heavy metals are harmful to health at these city parks,” said Manuel Carmona, Director of Public Health. “Given the preliminary results of the Los Angeles County soil study, everyone should practice precautions within the neighborhoods identified in the study but there is no indication that community members or visitors need to avoid outdoor activities at city parks.”
Out of an abundance of caution, the City also tested parks that were outside the affected residential zones. Baseball infields at Washington Park and Victory Park had been temporarily closed during testing but will now reopen.
“We are very pleased with the findings and are excited to reopen our fields with the comforting knowledge that they are safe for use,” said Koko Panossian, Director of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department.
The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) advises residents to continue following basic safety measures to reduce potential exposure to lead in soil, especially for children, who are more vulnerable to its effects. Recommended practices include covering bare soil, frequent handwashing, and using HEPA-filtered cleaning methods indoors.
Free blood lead testing
Free mobile blood lead testing will be available at three community events between April and May. Residents concerned about exposure, particularly those with young children, are encouraged to take advantage of these services or consult their healthcare providers.
- Visit Your Medical Provider
- Ask your doctor for a blood lead test.
- Testing is covered by most insurance plans, including Medi-Cal.
- Make an appointment at a Quest Lab for a Free Blood Lead Test
- Dial 1-800-LA-4-LEAD to request a free appointment through Quest Labs.
- Simple, convenient, and confidential.
- In-Person Mobile Blood Lead Testing
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is offering free mobile blood lead testing. Upcoming events are listed below:
- Saturday, April 26
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church
1879 N. Lake Ave., Altadena, CA 91001
- Date:Sunday, April 27
Noon – 5:00 pm
Eaton Health Village/Pasadena Seventh Day Adventist Church
1280 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91104
- Date:Saturday, May 24
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
La Pintoresca Park for Family Fun Day
45 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91103
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