Iconic Ocean Beach Pier closes for good after storm damage
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Storms damaged the Ocean Beach Pier beyond repair, forcing it to close for good. Photo: City of San Diego
The iconic Ocean Beach Pier is so badly damaged that it won't reopen to the public until it's replaced with a more modern structure with new amenities.
Why it matters: It's the end of an era for the aging, deteriorated landmark that's defined San Diego's coastline for nearly six decades.
Catch up quick: The historic fishing pier built in 1966 has been closed since October 2023 because of damage by high surf and storms. It took another significant blow in December when a support beam broke off and fell into the ocean.
- The city has spent at least $1.7 million on temporary fixes over the past five years, and the pier's been closed about 30% of the time since early 2019, per the Union-Tribune.
- The damage and sporadic closures led the city to pursue a pier-renewal project that would overhaul the structure with new architectural designs and amenities. It will also be elevated to accommodate rising sea levels and offer better protection against crashing waves.
Yes, but: That project will take years to complete.
Driving the news: The city released a report Friday evaluating the pier's conditions and several potential immediate fixes.
- The cost, timeline, feasibility, additional construction and environmental permitting required to make the repairs necessary to reopen the pier isn't worth it, according to the city.
Threat level: New signage reminds visitors to be cautious when visiting the area.
What they're saying: "The decision on how to proceed factors in the likelihood that future storms will cause additional damage to the pier in coming years," Elif Cetin, assistant director of the city's engineering and capital projects department, said in a statement.
Between the lines: Instead, the focus has shifted to a long-term solution — building a new pier that's estimated to cost $170 million to $190 million.
- The community helped choose the preferred "braid" design with new and upgraded features, including an elevated walkway, fishing terraces and restaurants.
What's next: The final concept is expected to be revealed this fall.
