San Pedro's green suspension bridge over the Port of Los Angeles main channel, opened in 1963 and lit with blue LEDs at night. It is scheduled to close fully from November 2026 to about March 2028 for deck replacement.
The Vincent Thomas Bridge is the green suspension bridge that carries State Route 47 over the main channel of the Port of Los Angeles, linking San Pedro with Terminal Island. Opened in 1963, it’s the symbol of San Pedro and the official welcoming landmark of the City of Los Angeles.
Closure in 2026–2028
Caltrans is replacing the bridge deck. The bridge is scheduled to close fully to traffic from November 2026 to about March 2028, about 16 months. Expect detours and heavier traffic on Harbor Boulevard, Gaffey Street and the 110 freeway during that time. The Port of Los Angeles and Caltrans publish detour maps and updates.
Bridge facts
- Opened: November 1963, and dedicated in September 1963 to State Assemblyman Vincent Thomas, who championed it for years.
- Length: About 6,060 feet in total, with a 1,500-foot main span.
- Height: The towers rise about 365 feet, and ships pass about 185 feet below the deck.
- Lights: Since 2005, blue LED lights powered by solar panels light the cables at night.
Best places to see it
For classic photos, try the Harbor Boulevard promenade near the Battleship USS Iowa and Fanfare Fountain, the Los Angeles Maritime Museum at the foot of 6th Street, or a harbor boat cruise that passes under the span. At night, the blue lights reflect across the channel.
History
Before the bridge, people crossed to Terminal Island by ferry. The ferry building now houses the Los Angeles Maritime Museum. The bridge replaced the ferry service in 1963 and became one of the first suspension bridges in the world to stand on piles rather than solid rock.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Vincent Thomas Bridge closed?
Caltrans plans to close it fully from November 2026 to about March 2028 to replace the deck. Check the Port of Los Angeles and Caltrans for current detours.
Why is the Vincent Thomas Bridge green?
It has been painted green since it opened in 1963, and the color has become part of San Pedro’s identity.
Who was Vincent Thomas?
A San Pedro native who served in the California State Assembly for decades and pushed for the bridge to be built. It was dedicated to him in 1963.
Can you walk across the Vincent Thomas Bridge?
No. It is a freeway bridge with no pedestrian or bike access, except during rare special events.
