South Pasadena : Historic Status Retained

For an unprecedented fourth year in a row, South Pasadena is among the nation’s 11 “most endangered historic places,” according to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

The city is considered endangered because many of its historic houses could be destroyed by the proposed extension of the Long Beach Freeway (710), according to trust officials.

Mayor James C. Hodge Jr. said he was grateful that South Pasadena’s plight has been recognized by a national organization.

“We are pleased to have been honored by the National Trust again, but it is a constant reminder we are under the threat of the sword,” he said.

State and federal officials are expected decide this year whether to extend the freeway 6.2 miles through South Pasadena, Alhambra and Los Angeles.

The project, which would force the relocation or destruction of hundreds of South Pasadena homes, has been under consideration for decades. It is not expected to be completed until the next century.