Across the Los Angeles River the North Spring Street Viaduct gracefully stretches. This isn’t just any bridge. It’s a historical landmark a testament to bygone engineering. Designed by the talented John C Shaw it opened in 1927. Seventeen years after the North Main Street Bridge and the North Broadway Bridge were completed its construction eased congestion on the older spans.
The North Spring Street Viaduct wasn’t just thrown together. Shaw designed it to complement the classic style of its neighbors. The three bridges together form a cohesive group connecting Lincoln Heights to downtown Los Angeles. Look closely. You’ll see the reinforced concrete resting on three massive vertical piers. Two elegant arch spans soar above the river.
Notice the sculpted concrete railing. Ornate rounded arches are interspersed between decorative lamp posts. Each is topped by a distinctive octagonal lantern. Imagine the glow of these lights illuminating the night sky in the 1920s. The bridge has seen many changes. In 1939 the southern sidewalk was removed widening the road. Later in 1992 extensive repairs were undertaken. The beautiful balusters electroliers and railings were meticulously restored.
The North Spring Street Viaduct wasn’t just about practicality. It was a work of art. A symbol of progress and beauty. In 2008 it received well deserved recognition as Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #900. Even more recently in 2011 the City Council approved a plan to widen the bridge. They chose a clever solution that balanced preservation with modern needs. The widening was limited to only one side. This ensured the historic bridge remained largely intact. The design included pedestrian and bicycle access. This exemplifies a modern approach to urban renewal. The North Spring Street Viaduct stands as a symbol of Los Angeles’s rich history its architectural ingenuity and its commitment to preserving its heritage. It’s more than just a way to cross the river. It’s a captivating piece of the city’s story.