ANNOUNCEMENTS
Eastbound traffic patterns coming off the Gerald Desmond Bridge will change tonight, when one of two off-ramps to Pico Avenue will close permanently to enable construction crews to complete a new connector into downtown Long Beach. When heading east on Ocean Boulevard, the off-ramp that will close permanently is on the south side of the fork, and closest to the Long Beach Container Terminal (LBCT).
All traffic traveling east from the Gerald Desmond Bridge will still be funneled onto Pico Avenue where vehicles can reach either the northbound 710 Freeway or the Ocean Boulevard detour heading into downtown Long Beach. Instead of two off-ramps, there will be only one (shown in green in the map above).
As motorists descend from the bridge, those heading north to the 710 should remain in the left lanes, and motorists wishing to reach downtown Long Beach should stay in the right lane, which is a free right turn onto southbound Pico Avenue.
“With all eastbound traffic now using one off-ramp, we encourage all travelers to exercise good judgment and patience. Watch your speed and be aware that traffic may suddenly slow as you reach this single off-ramp area,” said Duane Kenagy, Port of Long Beach Capital Programs Executive and head of the Gerald Desmond Bridge Replacement Project.
Motorists are advised to monitor traffic conditions and allow additional time to travel through this section of the construction area. Traffic signals and designated turning lanes will be adjusted to help maintain vehicle flow in this area.
To prepare for the ramp closure, there will be a brief overnight detour of eastbound traffic away from the Gerald Desmond Bridge. Starting at 9 p.m. tonight, all eastbound traffic will be diverted at SR-47 until 9 a.m. on Saturday morning.
For a detailed fact sheet and map of the area, click here.