East Palo Alto celebrates the opening of its new pedestrian bridge

East Palo Alto city officials and regional leaders pose for photos before cutting the ribbon to the city's new pedestrian bridge

East Palo Alto residents, civic leaders and regional partners celebrated the long-awaited opening of the University Avenue Pedestrian Bridge, a project many described as both practical and symbolic for the community.

“This is a joyous celebration… celebrating safety and community and connectability,” City Manager Melvin Gaines said as he welcomed the crowd and opened the event. The ribbon cutting, which took place on Saturday, November 22, marked the official completion of a project that has been in the works for years, with construction breaking ground on December 9, 2022.

The bridge crosses Highway 101 at University Avenue, linking the west side of East Palo Alto—an area long cut off by the freeway—to the rest of the city. For years, residents have relied on narrow sidewalks and risky crossings to reach schools, parks, shopping and public transit. Many speakers pointed out that the new overcrossing finally gives pedestrians and cyclists a safer and more direct route.

“This bridge is a testament to what collaboration at every level of government can achieve,” said Miles Goodman, district representative from the Office of State Senator Josh Becker.

Caltrans Deputy District Director Cameron Oakes echoed that sentiment, adding that the bridge reflects a shift in how transportation decisions affect neighborhoods.

“This effort embodies our commitment to ensuring that our transportation system unites rather than separates the communities we serve,” Oakes said.

San Mateo County Supervisor and former East Palo Alto Mayor Lisa Gauthier spoke about the project’s deeper meaning for residents.

“This is more than a bridge, it is a promise fulfilled to connect our neighborhoods, improve safety, and strengthen the bonds of community,” she said. She called the new overcrossing “a symbol of equity, saf and community pride.”

East Palo Alto’s Mayor Martha Barragán noted that the project has already improved daily life for many.

“This project has strengthened the safety of our community and has allowed access and mobility for all,” she said.

City Councilmember Carlos Romero and Public Works Director Hamza Javed also addressed the crowd, acknowledging the years of planning and partnerships required to bring the bridge to completion. Vice Mayor Mark Dinan and Councilmembers Ruben Abrica and Webster Lincoln were also in attendance.

Following the speeches, the group walked from the parking lot to the entrance of the bridge, where dignitaries posed for photos before Mayor Barragán cut the ribbon. Several attendees then made the first official walk across the span, taking in the view and testing out what many hope will become a well-used route for students, families and commuters.

For East Palo Alto, the new pedestrian bridge represents not only a safer crossing but also a physical reminder of the city’s ongoing efforts to connect and support its neighborhoods.