Santa Monica Closed Appian Way for Bridge Work

The city has closed Appian Way to accommodate the ongoing replacement of the Santa Monica Pier Bridge.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Santa Monica Closed Appian Way for Bridge Work

Live Poll

Do you accept temporary travel delays for necessary local infrastructure improvements?

Santa Monica has shuttered Appian Way to all vehicle traffic from October 5, 2026, through October 9, 2026. This closure supports the federally funded Santa Monica Pier Bridge Replacement Project, which aims to replace the aging structure with a modern design.

Why it matters

The 86-year-old bridge, originally constructed in 1939, currently fails to meet modern structural and seismic standards. Replacing it is a necessary step to ensure long-term public safety and improved mobility for the thousands who visit the landmark.

The current bridge was built in 1939, making the structure 86 years old. The replacement design includes a new 15-foot-wide sidewalk to better accommodate pedestrian traffic.

The players

City of Santa Monica

The local municipal government is responsible for managing city infrastructure and the current bridge replacement project.

The details

Crews have initiated the bridge demolition and reconstruction, requiring a full vehicle shutdown of Appian Way to facilitate safe work. While the road is closed, pedestrians and visitors can still access the Santa Monica Pier, with vehicle traffic for pier parking rerouted via the Pacific Coast Highway.

The Santa Monica Pier Bridge was originally constructed in 1939.
The City of Santa Monica announced the impending road closure on October 1, 2026.
The closure of Appian Way began on October 5, 2026.
The road is scheduled to reopen to traffic on October 9, 2026.

Market Landscape

This project aligns with national efforts to modernize aging infrastructure to comply with the National Bridge Inspection Standards. It reflects a broader trend of municipalities prioritizing seismic resilience to mitigate the risks associated with historic, non-compliant structures.

Drivers attempting to reach the Santa Monica Pier should anticipate temporary traffic delays and use the Pacific Coast Highway for parking access. Visitors should follow all posted wayfinding signage to navigate around the construction zone during the four-day closure.

The takeaway

Travelers should verify routes before departing as local construction projects can lead to sudden shifts in access. Checking municipal traffic alerts remains the most effective way to avoid disruptions during ongoing infrastructure improvements.