Altadena Faces Rebuilding Crisis Amid Immigration Raids, Rising Costs

URGENT UPDATE: The community of Altadena is grappling with severe rebuilding challenges following the devastating Eaton fire, which destroyed numerous homes earlier this year. Local resident Xochitl Trejo is among those facing immense hurdles as rising construction costs and heightened immigration enforcement complicate recovery efforts.

On January 8, 2025, the Eaton fire ravaged Trejo’s home, which she purchased in 2003 after immigrating from Mexico. “All your sacrifices, your time, all the hard work – took seconds to disappear just like that,” Trejo lamented, now living in a rental with her son.

The situation in Altadena is dire. Reports indicate that the average home price in the area has soared to nearly $1.3 million before the fires, while construction costs have skyrocketed from $350 to as much as $500 per square foot in just months. The ongoing crisis has left many, including Trejo, struggling to find affordable contractors willing to take on rebuilding projects.

The increasing presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has created a “climate of fear” among local workers, severely impacting the construction workforce. Since early June, ICE raids have intensified throughout Southern California, particularly in immigrant communities. In one alarming incident, construction workers were detained at a Pasadena bus stop while en route to assist with rebuilding efforts.

Local real estate developer Brock Harris noted that ICE’s presence has led to a significant drop in available labor. “That one visit was enough to just put a chill in everyone,” he said. Many workers are opting to stay home rather than risk detention, further delaying recovery.

The situation has drawn criticism from local officials and immigrant advocates. Rep. Judy Chu stated, “As Altadena continues to recover from the devastating Eaton Fire, Trump’s ICE raids are undermining our ability to rebuild and heal.” She emphasizes that the impact of these detentions extends beyond immigrants, affecting local businesses and residents who rely on construction efforts.

Despite the challenges, Trejo remains determined to rebuild her home in Altadena, a community she describes as “irreplaceable.” “I need to start as soon as possible – but I’m not getting anyone that is willing to take the project,” she expressed, highlighting the emotional toll of the recovery process.

Community responses to the crisis are growing, with signs proclaiming “Altadena is not for sale” popping up throughout the neighborhood. This movement aims to protect residents from being priced out as the cost of rebuilding continues to rise.

The local government has acknowledged the issue. In mid-October, Los Angeles County declared a state of emergency in response to the impact of ICE raids on immigrant families. Local leaders stress the need for meaningful immigration reform to support those working to rebuild their homes and lives.

As of early November, Trejo’s lot remains untouched, and she fears for the future of her neighborhood. “It’s hurtful the way we used to see the U.S. as an opportunity for us to accomplish our ‘American Dream’ is pretty much gone,” she said, reflecting on the profound changes faced by families in the area.

As Altadena grapples with these urgent challenges, the situation remains fluid. Residents are anxiously watching how federal and local responses evolve, hoping for a path that allows them to reclaim their homes and communities. The need for unity and support in the face of adversity has never been more critical.

The community’s resilience will be tested in the coming months as they work to rebuild not just their homes, but their dreams in the face of overwhelming odds.