Pasadena's City Hall WebsiteProject Description
The Pasadena City Hall Seismic Upgrade & Rehabilitation Project is located in the center of Pasadena on Garfield Boulevard. The project consists of structural upgrades including the installation of a base isolation system that will permit the building to move during a seismic event, new shear walls, and a “moat” to isolate the perimeter as well as a complete rehabilitation of the historic interior and exterior components of the building. The mechanical and electrical systems will be replaced as part of the rehabilitation.
The main impetus of the project is the seismic isolation. This work consists of removal of the original basement floor slab, excavation and installation of a new foundation, placement of a new basement floor support, and installation of 240 friction pendulum isolators between the foundation and basement level. Shear walls are installed on the East end of the building’s wings. The existing arcade is demolished and replaced with a new arcade that ties the building’s two wings together.
The project also includes a complete interior rehabilitation of the building. The interior walls are replaced, the plaster ceilings restored, and new finishes installed. The project includes the installation new HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems. The existing historic elevator cab is restored and the non-historic elevator cab is refurbished to match. A new elevator is installed near the counsel chambers.
The exterior of the building is refurbished as part of this project. All cast stone elements and the exterior plaster will be refurbished and restored. The copper cladding on the dome and stair towers will also be refurbished. New site paving, landscaping, new planters and decomposed granite walkways will add the finishing touches to this historic restoration.
Due to the historic significance of the building there are many historic elements that are preserved, protected, and/or restored during the course of the project. Key features include the marble elements, light fixtures, quarry tile, wood doors, and woodwork elements.