Renovation for Landmark Bridge

When Pasadena’s Colorado Street Bridge opened in 1913, it was the highest concrete bridge in the world. It quickly became popular among strolling lovers and suicides, who leaped into the Arroyo Seco so often that it was popularly tagged the “Suicide Bridge.”

But in later years it fell into disrepair, and only an outcry from preservationists saved it from demolition in 1951. At last, the bridge, whose series of Gothic arches have been a landmark for motorists, is getting a much-needed patch-up.

Contractors have started peeling away the deck, replacing railings and refurbishing its cast-iron street lights. The $27.3-million job is expected to be completed in about two years.