Can’t wait to walk on a renovated Pismo Pier? You’ll have to wait a little longer

Work is close to being finished on the first phase of the $8.7 million Pismo Pier rehabilitation, but don’t expect it to reopen just yet.

The structure closed in March for a massive makeover to replace the original section from 1924, upgrade the electrical lighting and bring in new deck boards, park benches, drinking fountains and trash cans.

Pismo Beach Public Works Director Ben Fine said that construction on the first diamond of the pier — the segment closest to the beach — will be completed by Fourth of July, just in time for the annual fireworks show. (The city traditionally launches its fireworks from the pier.)

Though the city had initially expected it would reopen that segment to the public by the summer holiday, Fine said the first diamond will stay closed to beachgoers a little longer while the construction moves to the next segment of the pier.

The fireworks show will go off as planned, but the general public likely won’t be allowed on the structure for some time, he said.

“We’re hopeful for the summer,” he said.

Fine said they will consider opening it to people on the weekends once construction has moved a suitable distance away from the first segment.

Meanwhile, the city is still selling planks from dismantled portions of the pier, as well as commemorative “Golden Hammers.” Those can be purchased through the city’s engineering department at 805-773-4656.

The planks are a popular item, Fine noted, with the city routinely selling out each week.

This story was originally published June 15, 2017 at 6:19 PM with the headline "Can’t wait to walk on a renovated Pismo Pier? You’ll have to wait a little longer."