Thirty-five hundred feet of concrete and steel. That’s the 6th Street Viaduct. A ribbon of light stretching across the Los Angeles River. It’s a breathtaking sight. This wasn’t always the case though.
The original 6th Street Viaduct opened in 1932. It was a marvel of engineering for its time. A vital link between Downtown Los Angeles and Boyle Heights. But the concrete used had a high alkali content. This led to a chemical reaction. The reaction caused cracks. Cracks that weakened the entire structure.
By 1986 Caltrans recognized the problem. They knew the viaduct needed major work. The 6th Street Viaduct was even considered for the National Register of Historic Places. Despite its historical significance serious structural issues overshadowed its historic value. Seismic instability was a major concern. The probability of collapse during a major earthquake was estimated to be 70% within 50 years. This was a serious threat.
The decision was made to demolish the old viaduct. In January 2016 it closed for good. Demolition began soon after. It took nine months to completely remove the old structure. Forty-eight thousand cubic yards of concrete were hauled away. That’s a lot of concrete. Along with 1245 tons of steel and 4200 tons of rebar.
Then came the construction of the new viaduct. Architect Michael Maltzan designed the replacement. The design incorporated ten LED-lit arches. These arches change color. They create a stunning visual spectacle at night. The new bridge opened on July 9 2022. It’s a modern marvel that honors the past while embracing the future. It is not only a transportation link but a symbol of the city’s resilience and innovation. The 6th Street Viaduct. A testament to engineering. A symbol of Los Angeles.