Work begins on 'abstract breaking wave' walkway near Long Beach Convention Center

City officials Wednesday marked the start of construction for a new 605-foot-long pedestrian bridge spaing East Seaside Way near the Long Beach Convention Center.

The new walkway will provide a coection between the convention center walkway near Pine Avenue and the Performing Arts Center.

The bridge is designed as an abstract breaking wave with a deck, and will feature a canopy of LED accent lights. The bridge also includes paving, seating and landscape “evocative of a boardwalk environment,” city officials said in a statement.

The project, expected to be complete in one year, also includes replacing damaged curbs and gutters, driveways, alley entrances and sidewalks.

“With viewing points and cell phone charging stations, this will be more than just a bridge,” Vice Mayor Suja Lowenthal said in a statement. “It will be a community gathering place offering retreat and respite from the daily rhythms of life.”

Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia said in a statement the bridge will also help the local economy by spurring tourism and making it easier for convention attendees to access the Performing Arts Center.

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