Vincent Thomas Bridge Closing Until 2028

Blinking electric signs warning of the closure of the Vincent Thomas Bridge in San Pedro have appeared along the 5 freeway near Dodger Stadium, some 25 miles from the span. The 6,000-foot span is closing on November 7 for more than a year as the 63-year-old roadway deck (the horizontal part of the structure) is removed and replaced. A full 24/7 closure in both directions is required to replace the concrete roadway, railings, barriers and seismic sensors. Heavier trucks and corrosion from sea air contributed to the deterioration. The bridge is essential for workers and neighbors commuting near the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Councilmember Tim McOsker, concerned that a long closure would cause “Harborgedden” level traffic, has been trying to get the word out about the closure in conjunction with Caltrans, which has held over 100 public meetings about the closure. The state has also notified Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze in an effort to steer people away from the area.