Frequently asked questions.

What is the project timeline?

The project is in its beginning phase, with City teams gathering data and community input about the Ocean Beach Pier, and working towards a planning study design that will take into account structural, architectural, historical, urban design, civil, shore protection, sustainability, electrical, mechanical & plumbing, cost estimate, and construction schedule.

In 2023, we can expect …

  • Data Gathering

  • Public Meetings

  • Planning Study 

  • Technical Studies

  • Draft EIR (Environmental Impact Report)

    In 2024, we can expect …

  • Schematic Design Phase

  • Final EIR

  • Preliminary Design Phase

  • Final Public Meeting

  • Permitting Phase

    … With construction potentially beginning in early 2026.

Did you know? The original pier was built in 15 months - a commendable feat from contractor Leonard Teyssier.

Who is working on the project?

Led by James Nagelvoort of the City of San Diego’s Strategic Capital Projects Department, the Ocean Beach Pier Task Force is working to determine the best way forward for the pier. A team of experts from the engineering, planning, and architectural fields have been engaged, with all consultants bringing extensive experience in similar projects to the table. Engineering firm Moffat & Nichol, urban planning and design group Civitas, and RNT Architects have coordinated efforts for an intensive design evaluation and process for getting the project “shovel-ready.” Once the permitting and preliminary design phases are complete, the project will be sent for bid by qualified contractors utilizing a design-build delivery system.

What is the project budget?

Costs for replacement of the pier were estimated at $60 million in a 2018 Evaluation Report. With the rise in material and labor costs that the construction industry has seen since the pandemic, and a varied cost based on the community’s chosen design alternative, the final budget is not yet set. However it will most likely will be higher, closer to the $80M range. This cost could be offset by including increased opportunities for revenue-generating elements on the pier, whether it be expanded restaurant dining options or other potential scientific, educational, or recreation-based applications.

Where is the funding coming from?

Once a preferred design is selected, the City intends to pursue multiple State and Federal grants for infrastructure and public works projects. This funding will come from a different budgetary source than funds for homelessness and social services. The State so far has allocated $8.4 million for the project.

How long will the pier remain closed?

The pier will remain closed until structural surveys can determine whether it is safe to reopen or the public. While the visual damage has been analyzed, further evaluations are expected to begin once the winter storms have subsided, and the full extent of the damage can be assessed.