Goleta Beach bridge opens to vehicle traffic

A year-long construction project to install a new bridge at Goleta Beach is drawing to a close.

The new Goleta Beach Park Bridge opened to vehicle traffic on Monday, with pedestrian traffic to be allowed on the bridge in the next few days.

Temporary rails and striping will be in place as crews continue with painting, landscaping and other aesthetic work before the bridge is completed.

The old bridge saw wear and tear throughout the years with over a million visitors annually. That bridge will be demolished in August, closing the book on the major construction process.

Demolition on the old bridge includes the installation of sheet piles in the channel to divert water and prevent materials from the old bridge entering the slough. An environmental monitor will be on site to ensure none of the work has a negative impact on the slough and wildlife.

Both lanes are currently open to vehicle traffic with single lane closures planned for the near future.

The entire project is projected to be completed in September.