After five decades of serving as a prominent landmark in the Pacifica community, the Pacifica Pier is undergoing an indefinite closure after cracking and structural damage affected the concrete walkway, making it unsafe for visitors to walk upon.
A large crack appeared at the pier’s entry point on June 4, which prompted an immediate shutdown and a local emergency declaration.
The Pacifica Municipal Pier was built in 1973, located at Sharp Park Beach. The pier was originally built as a support structure for the city’s sewage system, but quickly evolved into a place where residents and visitors could gather, fish, and walk along the coastline. Over the years, it became a key area of attraction, and has carved a place for itself within Pacifica’s identity.
“The Pacifica Pier is especially meaningful because it offers something rare in the Bay Area: a place where people could walk out over the ocean, fish or crab for free, watch pelicans dive, see whales breach, and feel the power of the waves up close,” said Pacifica realtor and prominent community member Vicki Moore.
“It stretches boldly into the ocean and has always felt like a steady presence. A little battered at times, but always there.”
The pier has become a central part of Pacifica’s community, featuring the charm and unique aspects of the city’s coastal life. It is a place where many residents hold memories, and offers something of value to people of all ages and demographics, whether it be a walk with friends and family, or an accessible spot for fishing.
Esme Hanlon ’27 commented on the pier’s closure, saying, “It’s definitely unexpected and sad. Having grown up walking on it and watching the fisherman, it was definitely a shock. I used to go get hot cocoa from the cafe and it was bizarre seeing that come down.”
For Jude Kopping ’27, the pier represents family traditions. “One of my favorite memories of the Pacifica Pier is when my dad would take me there after school… Those visits made the pier a special place for me and my family.”
Not only has the pier been a place of nostalgia and companionship, but it was also the location of the Chit Chat Cafe, a beloved and charming coffee and sandwich shop.
The cafe has been a staple amongst residents and visitors, offering affordable coffee and meal options, an inviting and quiet atmosphere, and coastal views.
“People are sad about losing access to the pier itself. They are also sad about the loss of Chit Chat Cafe. It was a favorite local spot, especially on cold, dreary days when you could run in from the wind and waves, get a warm drink, and see a familiar face behind the counter. Fortunately, Chit Chat has its Pacific Manor location open, but the little cafe at the pier will be missed,” stated Moore.
The cafe underwent demolition starting June 9, at about 11 a.m. The owners, Ginger Davis and Branden Jenkins, have expressed on their page that the closure was unforeseen, and have set up a GoFundMe to aid in expenses.
Looking forward, the future of the pier is full of uncertainty. As construction crews work to stabilize the foundation, the Pacifica Municipal Pier remains closed to the public, and the city continues to assess its conditions.
Repairs to the pier were previously estimated to cost around $20 million; however, this figure has skyrocketed following the recent structural damage.
“The pier has been in need of attention for a while now,” said Susan Rissotto, Pacifica resident and mother of two Riordan alumni. “The rust and collapse was eventually going to happen. It is very sad–hopefully funding will be granted to fix the pier.”
As of now, no final decisions have been made by city leaders as to what will come of the pier.
Residents of Pacifica have come forward in the midst of this confusion, and have banded together in many ways, displaying a resilience and commitment toward the city. A notable example of this is the Facebook group “Save the Pier,” which was created within 48 hours of the pier’s closure.
While many have expressed frustration and sadness, community members have channeled these emotions into action, working to preserve a cherished landmark of Pacifica.
