Vincent Thomas Bridge in San Pedro closes for 16 months as $750 million renovation project begins

SAN PEDRO, Calif. (CNS) -- The Vincent Thomas Bridge closed to traffic just after midnight Saturday and will remain shut for 16 months while Caltrans replaces the bridge deck in a $750 million project.

The bridge, which connects San Pedro with Terminal Island and the Port of Los Angeles, carries an average of 53,000 vehicles daily, including heavy trucks. Nearly 9% of daily traffic consists of heavy trucks, according to Caltrans.

Although the bridge remains structurally sound, its concrete deck has deteriorated under decades of heavy traffic and exposure to the marine environment, Caltrans officials said.

The project will replace the entire bridge deck, median, railings, fencing and signage, and upgrade seismic sensors. The bridge is targeted to reopen in early March 2028.

"Caltrans has been working hand-in-hand with our partners, residential and business communities, and all stakeholders in preparation for the 16-month closure of the Vincent Thomas Bridge," Gloria Roberts, Caltrans District 7 director, said in a statement. "Our investment to replace the bridge deck will keep our communities connected and commerce moving through the San Pedro Bay Port Complex and the nation."

The bridge closed at 12:01 a.m. Saturday.

Motorists are being detoured primarily along the 110 and 710 freeways, state Route 103 and Harry Bridges Boulevard.

Traffic control officers will be deployed at 18 key intersections as needed to help manage traffic. Police also will expand enforcement of commercial truck restrictions, according to Caltrans.

"For 16 months, this closure will have a significant impact on the people who live and work in our Harbor communities," City Councilman Tim McOsker said. "We've worked closely with Caltrans to keep detour traffic out of our residential neighborhoods and secure road repairs and traffic enforcement. We'll stay closely involved throughout the closure to address problems as they arise. Our residents deserve safe streets and a coordinated response they can count on."