Hermosa Beach Pier's Future in Doubt as Repair Costs Soar

City leaders weigh options as engineering report reveals $210M in needed upgrades for aging landmark

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:03am

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The future of Hermosa Beach's iconic 60-year-old pier is in jeopardy as a new engineering report outlines staggering repair costs that could exceed $210 million over the next 45 years. City officials are now grappling with difficult choices, including complete demolition, extensive restoration, or a full reconstruction of the beloved community gathering space.

Why it matters

The Hermosa Beach Pier has long been a central part of the city's identity and a hub for local life, hosting recreational activities, family gatherings, and the Surfers' Walk of Fame. Any decision about the pier's future will have major implications for the community's character, tourism, and finances.

The details

The current concrete pier, built in 1965, is nearing the end of its lifespan according to a recent analysis by JMC² Engineering. The report found the structure to be in 'poor to serious condition' due to decades of wear from the marine environment. Maintaining the pier for another 45 years through continuous repairs could exceed $210 million, while a complete replacement is estimated at $45 to $58.6 million, plus an additional $45 million in financing costs.

  • The current concrete pier opened in 1965.
  • The city has allocated $3.5 million for urgent pier repairs in 2026.

The players

JMC² Engineering

The engineering firm that conducted the analysis on the pier's condition and repair costs.

Anthony Higgins

A Hermosa Beach resident who estimated the financing costs for a pier rebuild could add another $45 million to the project.

Hermosa Beach City Council

The local government body that is responsible for deciding the pier's future and has referred the project to the Public Works Commission for further analysis.

Hermosa Beach Public Works Commission

The city commission that will provide additional technical and financial analysis on the pier project.

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What they’re saying

“Maintaining the pier for another 45 years through continuous repairs could exceed $210 million.”

— JMC² Engineering

“The financing costs for a pier rebuild could add another $45 million to the project, potentially costing property owners $515 per year through a bond measure.”

— Anthony Higgins, Hermosa Beach Resident

What’s next

The Hermosa Beach City Council has allocated $3.5 million for urgent pier repairs in 2026 to ensure its safety and accessibility during the decision-making process. The project has been referred to the Public Works Commission for further technical and financial analysis.

The takeaway

The future of the iconic Hermosa Beach Pier hangs in the balance as city leaders grapple with the stark reality of the structure's deteriorating condition and the staggering costs associated with maintaining or replacing it. The decision they make will have profound implications for the community's identity, tourism, and finances for generations to come.