Completed and opened to the public in July 2022, the new $588 million Sixth Street Viaduct is the largest bridge project in the history of Los Angeles.
The viaduct replaced the 1932 original, beloved bridge, which had been deteriorating for decades due to Alkalai Silica Reaction, caused by an aggregate in the concrete that drew in moisture and caused cracks. After repeated attempts to retrofit the old bridge the decision was made that it needed to be replaced.
After much outreach and consultation with the community, in 2012, the Bureau of Engineering held an international design competition to select a design for the new viaduct. Michael Maltzan Architects, a local Los Angeles firm, and HNTB, were the winners with the design, "The Ribbon of Light".
In 2016, Engineering began demolition of the old bridge. Demolition took nine months. Upon completion, construction began on the new viaduct.
The project was funded by the Federal Highway Administration and the California Department of Transportation, and the City of Los Angeles.
In addition to 10 sets of LED-lit arches that can change color, the new viaduct also has:
● Sidewalks on each side of the viaduct, varying from 8’ to 14’ in width.
● 10’ wide Class IV protected bike lanes along each side of the viaduct.
● The east ramp in Boyle Heights is a 3.5 level helical structure connected by paths to both the north and south sides of the viaduct .
● The helical ramp is 790’ long, 12’ wide, and 45’ tall.
● A 510’ long west ramp from the north side of the bridge to the ground near Mateo Street.
● Five sets of stairs connecting the viaduct to the ground underneath, which will open when the PARC is completed.