SANTA MONICA—On Tuesday, July 28, the city of Santa Monica announced that Appian Way reopened Tuesday to vehicle traffic days ahead of schedule, restoring the primary access route to the main Pier parking lots.
As part of the Santa Monica Pier Bridge Replacement Project, Appian Way was anticipated to remain closed for up to eight days while crews demolished a portion of the existing Pier Bridge over the roadway. As a result of the innovative alternative construction approach, demolition was completed significantly ahead of schedule, allowing the roadway to reopen after just one day.
Construction for the Pier Bridge Project continues. A few reminders:
-Access to Parking Lot 1 North from Appian Way or PCH
-Additional parking is available at Beach Lot 4 South, Beach Lot 3 North and Parking Structure 8
-Pedestrian access to the Pier and Ocean Front Walk remains open
Rather than using the saw-cutting method employed in other areas of the bridge, the contractor utilized two hydraulic breakers to complete demolition in this section. This approach substantially accelerated construction activities while maintaining safety, allowing crews to restore access much sooner than originally anticipated.
The Santa Monica Pier Bridge Replacement Project will continue to improve the safety, accessibility and long-term reliability of this historic gateway while maintaining access to the Pier and its businesses. The project is scheduled to be completed by 2028, in time for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
Santa Monica is replacing the iconic Santa Monica Pier Bridge, which serves as the only vehicular and a key pedestrian connection between Ocean Avenue and Santa Monica Pier.
Originally constructed in 1939, the 86-year-old bridge no longer meets modern structural or seismic standards. To improve long-term safety, access, and mobility, the city is moving forward with a federally funded replacement project that will deliver a new, seismically sound structure with improved features, including a 15-foot-wide sidewalk to enhance the experience for pedestrians and bicyclists.
To learn about the latest updates on the project, visit www.santamonica.gov/pierbridge.
By Danny Jones