Second Street Bridge in Long Beach Faces Major Reconstruction
The Second Street Bridge, officially known as the John H. Davies Bridge, is slated for a comprehensive deck replacement and safety upgrades beginning in fall 2026. The project, expected to last roughly one year, will impact traffic patterns for the thousands of commuters who rely on the bridge daily.
For over six decades, the bridge has served as a vital link across Alamitos Bay in Long Beach, connecting residents to work, visitors to Belmont Shore and Naples, and providing a pathway for boaters, cyclists, and pedestrians. Opened in 1959, the bridge has become a crucial part of the city’s infrastructure.
The need for the reconstruction stems from findings dating back to 2017. A Los Angeles County Bridge Inspection Report (BIR) initially rated the 2nd Street Bridge as “Structurally Deficient” due to the condition of its deck. Subsequent material testing in 2019 confirmed these findings, revealing signs of aging in the reinforced concrete, caused by moisture and traffic over the years.
Assistant City Engineer Joseph Khilla, P.E., T.E., clarified that a “structurally deficient” rating doesn’t necessarily indicate an immediate safety threat. He explained that under federal inspection criteria, a bridge receives this classification when one or more key structural components – such as the deck, superstructure, or substructure – are in poor condition and require rehabilitation or replacement.
While the project is a significant undertaking, city officials emphasize that It’s part of long-term infrastructure planning. The full replacement of the concrete deck, along with the planned safety and mobility upgrades, are intended to ensure the bridge continues to serve the community for decades to come.
Concerns regarding safety on the bridge have also been raised by residents and business owners. , reports indicated that residents were calling for safety improvements as traffic volume increased. A post on Reddit from , suggested the bridge’s jurisdiction may fall under the state, rather than the city.
The upcoming construction is expected to cause disruptions to daily commutes. Details regarding specific traffic detours and alternative routes will likely be released by the City of Long Beach as the project approaches its fall 2026 start date. The project is anticipated to continue through the winter of 2027.
The Second Street Bridge’s reconstruction represents a substantial investment in Long Beach’s infrastructure, aiming to address existing structural concerns and enhance the safety and functionality of this vital transportation artery.
