Pasadena Parks Closed Due to Elevated Lead Levels Found in Soil

Park Closures and Lead Detection

• ⚠️ Pasadena officials have closed portions of two local parks following the detection of elevated lead levels in soil samples.
• 🔬 The testing, conducted last month by LA County's Department of Public Health, focused on bare soil in baseball fields at Victory Park and Washington Park.
• 📍 Both parks are located within one mile of the Eaton Fire burn scar, which is believed to be the source of the contamination.

Community Impact and Concerns

• ⚾ Coaches and parents expressed disappointment over the closure of baseball fields, especially after recent displacement due to a January fire.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Residents, including parents whose children attend school across the street from Victory Park, expressed gratitude for the city's caution and safety checks.
• 💬 The public health department assured residents that most park areas, including grass, wood chips, asphalt, and concrete surfaces, remain safe for use.

Next Steps and Testing Timeline

• ⏳ Further testing is underway to assess the extent of the lead contamination.
• 🗓️ Test results are expected within approximately one week, after which a decision will be made on reopening the affected baseball fields.