Months-Long Closure Set to Disrupt Truck Traffic | Land Line Media
Vincent Thomas Bridge Closure to Disrupt Truck Traffic at San Pedro Bay Ports
A temporary closure of the Vincent Thomas Bridge will force port-bound trucks to use alternate routes in Southern California for several months, affecting access to terminals and cargo movements across the San Pedro Bay port complex.
Port Truck Traffic to Be Rerouted
Approximately 8% of truck traffic serving the port complex currently uses the bridge, which connects San Pedro and Terminal Island. Those trips will be diverted to other crossings and roadways, including Interstate 110, Interstate 710, State Route 103, the Long Beach International Gateway Bridge and the Commodore Schuyler F. Heim Bridge.
The additional routing is expected to increase travel times and make trip durations less predictable, particularly during peak shift changes, terminal gate periods and other high-traffic hours.
Potential Effects on Terminal Operations
The disruption could affect driver productivity, appointment schedules and cargo movements. Delays may also increase the likelihood of missed terminal appointments and additional accessorial costs for carriers and shippers.
Because the bridge provides a direct crossing between San Pedro and Terminal Island, traffic diverted to other connections could place additional pressure on already busy port-area corridors.
Truckers Advised to Plan for Delays
Carriers operating through the San Pedro Bay port complex should account for longer and less consistent travel times while the closure remains in effect. Road congestion, construction activity and limited route options could further affect access to terminals and surrounding industrial areas.
The bridge is expected to remain closed for several months before truck traffic can return to the direct crossing.
