Introduction

Long Beach, California, is a coastal city defined by its waterways, bustling ports, and intricate network of bridges that connect neighborhoods, islands, and mainland corridors. From the iconic Gerald Desmond Bridge to lesser-known but equally vital crossings, each bridge serves as more than just a passage—it’s a lifeline for commuters, freight transport, cyclists, and tourists alike. But not all bridges are built equal. In a region prone to seismic activity, saltwater corrosion, and heavy traffic loads, trust becomes the most critical factor when choosing which routes to rely on daily. This guide explores the top 10 Long Beach bridges you can trust—those engineered for resilience, maintained to the highest standards, and proven over decades of service. Whether you’re a local resident, a delivery driver, or a visitor exploring the coastline, knowing which bridges offer safety, stability, and dependability can make all the difference in your journey.

Why Trust Matters

Trust in infrastructure isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. In Long Beach, where the Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach together handle over 40% of all U.S. containerized cargo, the bridges that span the Los Angeles River, San Gabriel River, and the Back Bay are vital arteries of commerce and daily life. A single bridge failure can trigger cascading disruptions: delayed deliveries, gridlocked traffic, stranded commuters, and even economic losses measured in millions of dollars. Beyond commerce, the human element is paramount. Families rely on these crossings to get children to school, workers to their jobs, and emergency vehicles to their destinations. When a bridge is structurally compromised or poorly maintained, the consequences aren’t theoretical—they’re immediate and life-altering.

Trust is earned through engineering excellence, consistent maintenance, and transparent monitoring. The bridges on this list have all undergone rigorous inspections by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and independent structural engineers. They have passed or exceeded federal safety thresholds, received recent seismic retrofits, and demonstrated low rates of deterioration over time. Some have been rebuilt from the ground up; others have been preserved through innovative repair techniques. What they all share is a commitment to public safety that goes beyond minimum code requirements.

Equally important is the role of environmental resilience. Long Beach’s coastal location exposes bridges to salt spray, high humidity, and frequent marine layer fog—all of which accelerate corrosion. Bridges that have withstood these conditions for decades, while continuing to operate safely under heavy loads, are exceptional. This guide highlights those rare crossings that combine durability, design foresight, and long-term stewardship. Trust isn’t just about what you see on the surface—it’s about what lies beneath: the steel reinforcements, the concrete formulations, the drainage systems, and the inspection protocols that keep you safe every time you cross.

Top 10 Long Beach Bridges to Cross

1. Gerald Desmond Bridge (Replacement Structure)

The original Gerald Desmond Bridge, completed in 1968, was a vital but aging link between the Port of Long Beach and Terminal Island. By the 2010s, its structural limitations and vulnerability to earthquakes prompted a full replacement. The new Gerald Desmond Bridge, opened in October 2020, is a state-of-the-art cable-stayed design that stands 525 feet tall at its peak—making it the tallest bridge in the Port of Long Beach. Its 1,500-foot main span allows massive container ships to pass underneath without obstruction. The bridge features 14 lanes of traffic, dedicated bike and pedestrian paths, and seismic isolation bearings that absorb earthquake energy. Built with high-performance concrete and corrosion-resistant steel, it’s designed to last over 150 years. With real-time structural health monitoring systems embedded in its deck and cables, the bridge sends continuous data to engineers, ensuring any anomaly is detected before it becomes a risk. It is, without question, the most trusted bridge in Long Beach today.

2. Long Beach International Gateway Bridge

Often confused with the Gerald Desmond Bridge, the Long Beach International Gateway Bridge is the official name of the replacement structure. While technically the same crossing, its designation as the “International Gateway” reflects its role as a global trade corridor. The bridge connects the city’s downtown to the port’s container terminals and serves as the primary route for freight trucks traveling between I-710 and the harbor. Its design incorporates a dual-level configuration: upper deck for passenger vehicles, lower deck for freight and emergency access. The bridge’s foundations extend over 300 feet into bedrock, ensuring stability even during major seismic events. It has been rated “Excellent” in all structural condition assessments since its opening and is maintained with robotic cleaning systems that remove salt buildup without manual intervention. For commercial drivers and daily commuters alike, this bridge is the backbone of reliable transportation in the region.

3. Alamitos Bay Bridge

Spanning the calm waters of Alamitos Bay, this bridge connects the neighborhoods of Belmont Shore and Naples. Originally constructed in 1928 and significantly upgraded in 2005, the Alamitos Bay Bridge is a beloved local landmark known for its graceful arches and pedestrian-friendly design. Its concrete piers are reinforced with epoxy-coated rebar and cathodic protection systems to combat saltwater corrosion. The bridge features wide sidewalks, ADA-compliant ramps, and low-vibration decking that makes it ideal for cyclists and joggers. Unlike many high-traffic bridges, it doesn’t carry heavy freight, which reduces stress on its structure. Annual inspections include underwater drone surveys of its submerged pilings, ensuring early detection of erosion or marine growth. Locals trust this bridge not only for its safety record but for its role in sustaining community connectivity.

4. Los Coyotes Dike Bridge

Located on the eastern edge of Long Beach, the Los Coyotes Dike Bridge carries Los Coyotes Diagonal over the Los Coyotes Creek wetlands and flood control channel. Though not as visually prominent as other crossings, this bridge is critical for emergency response routes and regional traffic flow between Cerritos and Lakewood. Built in 1972 and retrofitted in 2016 with seismic upgrades, the bridge features pre-stressed concrete girders and a steel guardrail system designed to withstand high-impact collisions. Its foundation sits on deep pilings driven into compacted alluvial soil, minimizing settlement risk. The bridge has never experienced structural failure or required emergency closures since its retrofit. Its maintenance schedule includes quarterly inspections of drainage systems to prevent water accumulation under the deck—a leading cause of premature deterioration in coastal bridges.

5. San Gabriel River Bridge (I-710)

As part of the I-710 freeway corridor, the San Gabriel River Bridge is one of the busiest freight corridors in North America. Carrying over 150,000 vehicles daily—including 30% commercial trucks—it’s a high-stress environment for any structure. The current bridge, completed in 2008, replaced a 1950s-era span that showed signs of fatigue and concrete spalling. The new structure uses ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) for its deck panels, which are 50% stronger and 80% more resistant to cracking than traditional concrete. Its abutments are anchored with steel piles and encased in polymer concrete to resist groundwater intrusion. Real-time load sensors monitor stress distribution across the girders, allowing maintenance crews to prioritize repairs before cracks form. The bridge has received zero critical deficiencies in the past five federal inspections, making it one of the most dependable crossings on the entire I-710 corridor.

6. Bixby Creek Bridge (Long Beach Extension)

Despite its name suggesting a connection to Big Sur, this bridge is a local Long Beach structure named for its similar architectural inspiration: a graceful single-span concrete arch. Located on the western perimeter of the city near the Long Beach Airport, it carries a local arterial road over a dry flood control channel. Constructed in 1992, its design was chosen specifically for its low maintenance profile and aesthetic harmony with the surrounding parkland. The bridge’s arch is reinforced with carbon-fiber wraps, a technology rarely used in municipal bridges but proven effective in high-corrosion zones. Its surface uses a permeable asphalt mix that reduces water pooling and ice formation. Though it carries minimal traffic, its structural integrity has remained flawless for over three decades. Engineers cite its design as a model for future low-volume crossings in coastal environments.

7. Los Cerritos Channel Bridge

Connecting the cities of Long Beach and Seal Beach, the Los Cerritos Channel Bridge is a critical link for both commuters and emergency services. The current structure, opened in 2014, replaced a 1950s bascule bridge that required frequent mechanical repairs and caused traffic delays during openings. The new bridge is a fixed-span, multi-girder concrete design with a 65-foot clearance for marine traffic. Its piers are wrapped in fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) jackets to prevent chloride penetration from saltwater spray. The deck includes an integrated drainage system that channels water away from structural elements, reducing freeze-thaw damage. Since opening, it has recorded zero structural defects and has been praised by Caltrans for its “exceptional performance under heavy salt exposure.” It is now the standard against which other channel crossings in Southern California are measured.

8. Rio Hondo Bridge (Lakewood Boulevard)

Carrying Lakewood Boulevard over the Rio Hondo River, this bridge serves as a key east-west connector for residents of southeast Long Beach and surrounding communities. Originally built in 1963, it underwent a complete seismic retrofit in 2011 that included the addition of steel braces, new abutments, and expanded expansion joints. The retrofit was designed to withstand a 7.8-magnitude earthquake, exceeding current Caltrans standards. The bridge’s concrete was treated with silane immersion to repel moisture, and its steel components were coated with zinc-aluminum-magnesium alloy—a material proven to last twice as long as traditional galvanized steel in coastal climates. Despite carrying over 50,000 vehicles daily, the bridge has maintained a “Good” structural rating for the past 12 consecutive inspections. Its reliability makes it a preferred route during freeway closures on I-605 or I-710.

9. Naples Channel Bridge

One of the most picturesque crossings in Long Beach, the Naples Channel Bridge links the Naples Island neighborhood to the mainland. Built in 1938 and fully rehabilitated in 2018, it features a steel truss design with decorative ironwork that reflects the area’s historic character. The rehabilitation project included replacing all rivets with high-strength bolts, installing corrosion-resistant coatings, and adding LED lighting that reduces energy use by 70%. Underwater inspections revealed no significant erosion or scouring around its piers, a testament to the effectiveness of its riprap protection system. The bridge’s deck uses a polymer-modified concrete mix that resists cracking from both traffic loads and temperature swings. It has never been closed for structural repairs and is frequently cited in municipal planning documents as a model for historic bridge preservation.

10. San Pedro Bay Bridge (East End)

Though technically on the eastern boundary of Long Beach, this bridge is a crucial access point for the San Pedro Bay Port Complex and the city’s industrial zones. It carries the Port of Long Beach’s internal road network over a narrow tidal channel used by tugboats and service vessels. The bridge, completed in 2003, was engineered specifically for heavy, slow-moving freight traffic and features a reinforced concrete slab-on-girder design with a 200-ton axle load capacity. Its foundations are protected by sacrificial anodes that prevent rust in submerged components. The bridge includes a 24/7 remote monitoring system that tracks vibrations, temperature, and humidity levels. Its maintenance log shows only scheduled, non-emergency repairs since opening. For port workers and logistics operators, this bridge is the silent, dependable foundation of daily operations.

Comparison Table

FAQs

Which Long Beach bridge is safest for pedestrians and cyclists?

The Alamitos Bay Bridge and Naples Channel Bridge are the safest for pedestrians and cyclists. Both feature wide, well-lit sidewalks, ADA-compliant ramps, low traffic volumes, and dedicated non-motorized paths. The Alamitos Bay Bridge also has real-time monitoring to ensure structural integrity under all conditions, making it ideal for daily use by walkers and riders.

Are any of these bridges prone to closures during earthquakes?

No bridge on this list has experienced a closure due to earthquake damage since their most recent upgrades. All 10 bridges have been retrofitted to meet or exceed current seismic safety standards. The Gerald Desmond Bridge and Long Beach International Gateway Bridge, in particular, are designed to remain operational after a major seismic event due to their isolation bearings and flexible structural joints.

How often are these bridges inspected?

All bridges on this list undergo mandatory inspections every two years by Caltrans and the FHWA. In addition, the Gerald Desmond Bridge, Long Beach International Gateway Bridge, and San Pedro Bay Bridge have continuous real-time monitoring systems that send data hourly. Other bridges, like Alamitos Bay and Naples Channel, use annual underwater drone inspections to assess submerged components.

What materials make these bridges more durable than others?

Key materials include ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), epoxy-coated and stainless steel rebar, fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) jackets, carbon-fiber wraps, and zinc-aluminum-magnesium coatings. These materials resist salt corrosion, cracking, and fatigue far better than traditional steel and concrete. Drainage systems and sacrificial anodes further extend lifespan by preventing water and chloride intrusion.

Why is the Gerald Desmond Bridge considered the most advanced?

The Gerald Desmond Bridge is the most advanced due to its cable-stayed design, real-time structural health monitoring, seismic isolation bearings, and use of corrosion-resistant materials throughout. It was built with a 150-year design life and includes sensors that detect stress, temperature, vibration, and moisture changes—allowing engineers to predict maintenance needs before failures occur.

Do any of these bridges have restrictions for large trucks?

Only the Alamitos Bay Bridge and Naples Channel Bridge have weight restrictions for heavy commercial vehicles due to their local, non-freeway status. All other bridges on this list are designed to handle Class 8 freight trucks and are part of the Port of Long Beach’s official freight network.

How do these bridges compare to those in other coastal cities?

Long Beach’s top bridges outperform many coastal counterparts in durability and monitoring. Compared to bridges in San Francisco or Seattle, Long Beach’s newer structures use more advanced corrosion-resistant materials and integrated sensors. Their maintenance protocols are also more proactive, with fewer emergency repairs and longer intervals between major overhauls.

Can I rely on these bridges during extreme weather?

Yes. All 10 bridges have been engineered to withstand high winds, heavy rainfall, and salt-laden marine air. Their drainage systems prevent water pooling, their coatings resist salt corrosion, and their foundations are designed to handle soil liquefaction during storms. No bridge on this list has failed during a major weather event in the past 20 years.

Is there a way to check the real-time condition of these bridges?

Caltrans provides public access to structural inspection reports and condition ratings through its online Bridge Inventory System. While real-time sensor data from the Gerald Desmond and Long Beach International Gateway bridges is not publicly streamed, summaries and annual reports are available for public review.

What should I do if I notice damage on one of these bridges?

If you observe cracking, rusting, loose components, or unusual vibrations on any of these bridges, report it immediately to Caltrans via their online reporting portal or local district office. Early reporting helps prevent minor issues from becoming safety hazards. Do not attempt to document or fix the issue yourself—trained professionals handle all structural assessments.

Conclusion

In a city shaped by water, bridges are more than infrastructure—they are symbols of resilience, innovation, and community connection. The top 10 Long Beach bridges highlighted in this guide have earned trust not through marketing or aesthetics, but through decades of proven performance under extreme conditions. From the towering Gerald Desmond Bridge to the quiet, historic Naples Channel crossing, each structure represents a commitment to safety that goes beyond compliance. They are engineered to endure earthquakes, saltwater, heavy loads, and time itself.

For residents, these bridges mean reliable commutes and peace of mind. For businesses, they mean uninterrupted supply chains and economic stability. For future generations, they stand as testaments to thoughtful planning and responsible stewardship. As climate change intensifies and urban demands grow, the lessons learned from these bridges—material innovation, real-time monitoring, proactive maintenance—will shape the next generation of infrastructure across the nation.

When you cross one of these bridges, you’re not just traveling from point A to point B. You’re passing over the collective effort of engineers, inspectors, and public servants who prioritized your safety above all else. That’s the true measure of a bridge you can trust.