While Tung-Yen Lin wasn't directly responsible for the design of the new Eastern Span (completed in 2013), his influence on California bridge design and engineering is profound. He championed the use of prestressed concrete in bridge construction, an advancement that became a hallmark of many modern bridges. His philosophy emphasized not only structural efficiency and strength but also aesthetics, which influenced the conceptual approach to modern bridge design, including the Bay Bridge.

The replacement Eastern Span of the Bay Bridge features:

• A single-tower, self-anchored suspension bridge design, unique in its engineering.
• Improved seismic safety, a priority after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.
• A pedestrian and bicycle path, a modern feature reflecting community and environmental priorities.

Tung-Yen Lin’s work exemplified a harmonious blend of engineering innovation and architectural beauty, setting standards for projects like this.