144 Units Coming: Major Pasadena Affordable Housing Plan Unveiled

New 6-Story Pasadena Affordable Housing Project Proposed for Colorado Boulevard

A major new Pasadena affordable housing initiative is taking shape along one of the city’s most iconic thoroughfares. Los Angeles-based developer Meta Housing has officially submitted plans to the Pasadena Design Commission for a 6-story, 144-unit residential building at the intersection of 2000 E. Colorado Boulevard and San Marino Avenue—a site currently occupied by commercial space.

Pasadena Affordable Housing
Rendering of the proposed 144-unit affordable housing development in Pasadena. [Courtesy of Studio One Eleven]

A Game-Changer for Local Renters Designed by Studio One Eleven, the proposed development plans to deliver a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments alongside a 64-space parking facility. Out of the 144 total units, 143 will be strictly income-restricted for lower-income households, with one unit reserved for an on-site manager. While specific income thresholds have not yet been publicly disclosed, the scale of this Pasadena affordable housing project marks a notable step forward in addressing the San Gabriel Valley’s pressing need for accessible housing options.

Modern Architecture Meets Street-Level Energy The architectural plans balance urban density with neighborhood-friendly design. According to project renders:

  • Colorado Boulevard Frontage: Ground-floor space will be dedicated to modern resident amenities.

  • San Marino Avenue Side: Features street-facing townhome-style units, offering a seamless residential transition into the surrounding neighborhood.

What’s Next for the Development? Local residents and urban planning enthusiasts shouldn’t expect construction cranes just yet. The recent presentation to the Pasadena Design Commission was part of a preliminary design review process, meaning formal approvals and final environmental clearances are still pending. As urban real estate trends shift toward mixed-use and transit-accessible locations, this Pasadena affordable housing proposal is definitely one to watch in the coming months.