California Construction News staff writer
Construction is underway on a $152-million pedestrian bridge and gateway project that will connect Wilmington residents directly to the waterfront while transforming 12 acres of former industrial land into new public space.
The Avalon Pedestrian Bridge and Promenade Gateway project will provide pedestrian and bicycle access to the Wilmington Waterfront Promenade through a new 380-foot-long signature bridge spanning active rail lines. In addition to the crossing, the project includes the creation of the Avalon Promenade Gateway, a new open space recreational area designed to serve as a community gathering place.
City and port officials marked the groundbreaking Friday, calling the project a major investment in public access and neighbourhood revitalization.
“We are thrilled to begin construction on this transformational project that will create more green space and recreational opportunities for Wilmington residents and visitors alike,” said Karen Bass. She said the redevelopment of former industrial land is part of broader efforts to revitalize and better connect communities across the city.
Los Angeles City Councilmember Tim McOsker, whose district includes Wilmington and the Port, said the bridge will provide safe, direct access across the railroad tracks while adding much-needed green space.
“This project builds on the success of the Wilmington Waterfront Promenade by adding safe, direct access across the railroad while increasing much-needed green space for families to gather and enjoy,” McOsker said. He added that strengthening the link between Avalon Boulevard and the waterfront is expected to support local businesses and create new opportunities for the community.
At the port, officials said the project aligns with long-standing goals to expand public access to the harbour.
Lucille Roybal-Allard, president of the Los Angeles Harbor Commission, said the bridge and gateway area represent another step toward increasing waterfront access. Port Executive Director Gene Seroka said the initiative was made possible through the port’s Public Access Investment Plan, which ties community investment to cargo operations.
Port and city officials said residents were closely involved in shaping the community-focused design.
Plans for the Avalon Promenade Gateway include a landscaped entry plaza anchored by a 40-foot-tall architectural sundial, a historic walk and overlook, open terrace seating, pedestrian pathways and community gathering areas. The site will also include two parking lots and public restrooms, along with street, utility and lighting improvements.
The cable-stayed arch bridge is designed as a concrete structure that will provide a safe crossing over active rail operations and link directly to the Wilmington Waterfront Promenade, a port-funded public access project completed in early 2024.
The project site is located between Harry Bridges Boulevard and the Pacific Harbor Railroad lines, extending from midway between Marine Avenue and A Street westward to Broad Avenue.
Construction is expected to be completed by late summer 2028.
