The city of San Diego said damage from high surf has resulted in significant repairs for the Ocean Beach Pier.
The municipal fishing pier first closed in mid-January and now the city is hoping to have it open by Memorial Day Weekend.
Earlier this week officials said the city was developing a strategy to fix the pier. A spokesman said answers to questions like a timeline for repairs would be known in the coming weeks — but then San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer got involved.
"The mayor's leadership has essentially allowed us to start today with the work we’re doing but it’s a two-step process," said the city of San Diego's Infrastructure & Public Works Deputy Chief Operating Officer Johnnie Perkins.
RELATED: Ocean Beach Pier Still Closed Weeks After High Surf Damage, Unclear When It Will Reopen
The two-step process includes short-term and possible long-term repairs. The short-term includes fixing part of the railing that was destroyed by high surf. It also involves electrical, sewer and water repairs. That is expected to cost $430,000. Then the city will see if any long-term fixes are needed.
"It's got to be safe," said Faulconer. "I think we will hit this target of getting it open for Memorial Day but we’re going to have a longer more lengthy assessment. You know every pier after 50, 60, 70 years needs work — this one is no different."
The city said it has hired an engineering firm to see if more repairs will be necessary. Faulconer said he hopes the pier will be open for people to enjoy by the summer.
"We’ve really been urging everybody, 'Let's make sure we put everything behind this,' because this is such — it’s just an important symbol and an iconic symbol," Faulconer said.
The OB Pier opened in 1966 and is one of the most visited landmarks in San Diego, according to the city of San Diego.
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