08/01/2026
𩷠A love letter to our Bridge
Big changes are coming to Chinatown.The iconic bridge is coming down. We will miss the bridge dearly, but this moment also brings new possibilities.
For 60 years, itâs not easy to run a community art organization from the belly of a hotel, but it resulted in 20,000 square feet of the first cultural space for the community. Through the decades, CCC has defiantly claimed this space to champion Chinatownâs living history and radical creativity.
The Dr. Rolland and Kathryn Lowe Community Bridgeâdesigned by renowned artist Chen Chi Kwan and opened in 1971 to connect CCC to Portsmouth Squareâis deeply intertwined with Chinatown and CCCâs history. It represents our most literal gesture of connection, stretching from our location bordering Chinatown and the Financial District directly into the heart of the community.
For generations, the bridge has been a vital open space in one of the densest neighborhoods in the nation. It holds irreplaceable memories and an indelible place in the hearts of Chinatown's people, serving as a backdrop for everyday lives and cultural milestones.
As the community shapes its future, join us in preserving community memories of the Bridge through Chinatownâs storytelling efforts. Whether you knew it as the Community Bridge, the legendary "China Banks,â Portsmouth Square bridge, or a bridge to neighbors everywhere, it belonged to all of us.
A few memories:
â¨1970sâ2000s: Served as a community hub, hosting Spring Festival, Hop Jok fairs and Dragon Boat celebrations.
â¨2015: Transformed as "Skybridge" public art installation for the Central Subway temporary arts initiative.
â¨2016: Dedicated to honoring Dr. Rolland and Kathryn Lowe, Chinatown changemakers.
â¨2017: "From Charlottesville to Chinatown," a candlelight vigil against white supremacy.
â¨2018: Mik Gaspayâs "Sunrise" mosaic mural, a vital piece of CCCâs "Museum Without Walls" initiative.
â¨2021: From the Bay to Atlanta" community art rally, uniting thousands to stand against anti-Asian hate.
â¨2025: Became a q***r safe haven during "Chinatown Pride: We are Immortal!", kicking off QTAPI Week with an open-air dance floor.