On November 18, 1964, the California Highway Commission determined the routing for the final five (5) miles of the State Route (SR) 7 freeway through the communities of El Sereno, South Pasadena, and Pasadena to complete the adoption of the Long Beach Freeway. The SR 7 is now known as the SR 710.
While the freeway never materialized in El Sereno and South Pasadena, the 210 freeway and the SR 710 northern interchange were constructed in the City of Pasadena in the early 1970s, resulting in the 210 freeway and the Northern Stub. The freeway and this stub displaced thousands of residents and divided a residential community from an active central business district.
Hear stories of the mostly African American, Mexican American, and Japanese American families who lived in the neighborhood before eminent domain forced them from their homes.
The stub has now been relinquished, by Caltrans, back to the City of Pasadena and work is underway to re-envision the 50 acre space while respecting its past.
On this walk, we'll be joined by Brandon Lamar, President of the NAACP Pasadena Branch and Executive Director of Harambee Ministries, Dr. Gilbert Watson from the Center for Restorative Justice, Pasadena Latino historian and published author Roberta H. Martinez, City staff and consultants from the Robert Group, and Walktober Pasadena co-founder and researcher, Misch Anderson-Takemoto.
- Total distance will be approximately 3 miles.
- We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, and a hat.
- We also recommend bringing water and a snack.
Please register in advance to help us anticipate the number of attendees.
- We encourage walking, biking or taking transit to all Walktober events. Check the Pasadena Transit and Metro websites for transit options. Google maps walking and biking directions can also be helpful.
- City installed bike racks are available at or near the start location.
- Street parking is available at or near the start location. Check the parking signs for restrictions or pay options.
- Paid off-street parking is available in the area.
For accessibility information and requests, contact (626) 744-7311 or CSC@cityofpasadena.net.
Providing at least 72 hours advance notice will help ensure availability.
This event is part of Walktober Pasadena 2025, made possible by the City of Pasadena Department of Transportation, Day One, and the Pasadena Complete Streets Coalition.
