Scorched Earth Policy

Caltrans historically has purchased property, cleared the lots and left vacant blighted land in beautiful neighborhoods. Lots like those will be a common sight in South Pasadena if the freeway is approved. Caltrans estimates that it will take several years to buy or otherwise acquire all the property it needs for the freeway extension, and relocate residents and businesses. Properties for blocks around are impacted as property values decline. Vacant properties and boarded-up homes impact the crime rate, attract the homeless and vandals, and increase the risk of arson.

Alhambra Created Many of Its Own Traffic Problems

Remember when Fremont Avenue was blocked by trains? It was a good idea when Alhambra and the County of Los Angeles decided to lower the railroad below street level. However, they reduced the north/south traffic to just four major streets because bridges were expensive to build, and so they eliminated many major north/south crossings, forcing more cars onto just four major streets.

Disappearing City Yard

The City of South Pasadena's Corporate Yard dates back to 1888. The current version of the environmental impact report does not even discuss the loss of the yard, even though it is in the fast lane of the proposed freeway extension. Where is it going? Will Caltrans build a new City Yard?

Quiet Orange Grove Park