People Line Up To Get A Piece Of The Old Sixth Street Viaduct

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LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) - Chunks of the old Sixth Street Viaduct were handed out Saturday.

The structure is in the process of being demolished. Keepsakes were distributed near the structure's west end.

(Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

There were enough souvenirs for about a thousand people. They were given away as bands played and food trucks served up hot dishes and cold beverages. There was also a booth explaining the science behind the alkali-silica reaction that doomed the old viaduct. The chemical reaction causes concrete to expand and crack.

Souvenir chunks of the old viaduct ranged in size, but most were no bigger than a softball. They're accompanied by certificates of authenticity.

The new bridge will be completed in 2019.

The new 6th Street Bridge will feature wide pedestrian walkways and a design that honors its predecessor.