Pier bridge built back in the 1920s

way as part of a separate effort to renovate the nearby Junior Seau Community Center, the bandshell and amphitheater at the base of the pier. Any changes to those structures probably would need to be consistent with the look of the bridge.

Other city improvements already in progress near the pier include the construction of a new police substation, a building for beach maintenance gear, and public restrooms.

The pier access bridge is the oldest of all the structures, but it has not been officially designated as historic. It has been identified as “potentially significant” and qualifies as an historic resource under the California Environmental Quality Act, according to a city report.

Inspections completed in 2017 determined the bridge was in poor condition despite the maintenance done over the years. Also, because it was built long before current seismic standards were developed, it does not meet earthquake safety requirements.

Still, because of the distinctive 1920s look of the bridge, some people may be reluctant to replace it. While a new bridge could be designed to look similar, it would not be identical. Even a restoration of the original pier would require exterior steel and concrete reinforcement of the narrow columns that hold up the deck, which would affect the appearance.

Reconstruction would cost less and last longer than restoring the original structure, initial estimates show.

A rough schedule for the project calls for the completion of a schematic design along with a feasibility study and preferred alternative in the spring.

Environmental studies will continue through the fall of 2023. Construction documents could be finished in the spring of 2024 and construction could be completed in the fall of 2026, according to a city report.