The L.A. Harbor’s Vincent Thomas Bridge is preparing to launch a $706 million remodel, which will cause the bridge to close for at least one year starting in 2026.
As the only suspension bridge in the Greater Los Angeles Area, the Vincent Thomas Bridge has an interesting backstory, with its characteristic structure making numerous cameos in TV and film.
You may recognize this local landmark, but how much do you know about the “bridge to nowhere?” Keep reading for a closer look at the Vincent Thomas Bridge, plus some details about its upcoming closure.
The ‘bridge to nowhere’
California Assemblyman Vincent Thomas spent nearly two decades developing the Vincent Thomas Bridge, which opened in 1963 as a replacement for the old ferry crossing between San Pedro and Terminal Island.
Fellow legislators ridiculed the project, nicknaming it the “bridge to nowhere” because they thought it wouldn’t attract enough traffic. Nonetheless, the bridge was a success and now remains a vital connection to the Port of Los Angeles, serving over 58,000 vehicles a day.
The Vincent Thomas Bridge was considered an engineering marvel of its time, as the first suspension bridge in the United States to use welded steel instead of rivets.
Its striking design has also led to appearances in TV and film, including Gone in 60 Seconds, To Live in Die in L.A., Lethal Weapon 2 and 4, Inception, Den of Thieves, and Mr. and Mrs. Smith.
Vincent Thomas Bridge remodel
Caltrans is preparing to remodel the Vincent Thomas Bridge, beginning with weekend and nighttime closures in 2025 before transitioning to a full closure in 2026.
The initial plan involves a $706 million remodel to replace the deck and upgrade railings, fences, and the median barrier, which will require Caltrans to close the bridge for 16 months.
However, the Port of L.A. has proposed a plan to also raise the bridge for greater ship clearance, which would extend the full closure to 28 months and increase the cost to $1.5B.
According to the L.A. Times, this has raised concerns from local communities about long-term detours and traffic congestion. Caltrans will decide on the bridge raising plan in late October.
Preliminary detour routes involve looping around Harry Bridges Blvd. or the 110 and 405 freeways.
🌐 Learn more: Vincent Thomas Bridge Deck Replacement Project