Ventura's famed pier reopened Saturday after massive waves damaged the landmark last year.
Social media posts and news videos showed people walking toward the pier early Saturday, carrying fishing poles, coolers and folding chairs. The pier, the oldest in California, is a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing and draws tourists, families and lovers.
“Ventura Pier is open!” announced the city of Ventura on its channel X.
In January 2023, heavy surf caused by a winter storm hit the boardwalk. In December, another storm hit the pier, causing further damage to its pilings and supports.
Mary Joyce Ivers, deputy director of public works in Ventura, told KTLA that the city had to replace 37 wooden pilings, which support the pier deck, as well as 100 pieces of hardware and cross braces and 3,000 square feet of decking boards.
“It's a very important part of our city,” Ivers told KTLA. “It's a great milestone and there are a lot of wonderful things happening at this pier for families and our community.”
The repairs will cost at least $3.3 million, with the federal and state governments expected to pick up the slack, according to a city news release.
The pier, first built in 1872 as a private commercial wharf, has been repaired or rebuilt countless times throughout its history. It closed in 1992 for 13 months after waves hit it and reopened after a $3.5 million restoration.
More recently, it closed in 2015 for several months for repairs after another storm.
Ventura purchased the pier for $7,000 in 1940, but turned it over to the state in 1949.
In 1990, the city decided to reclaim it after state officials said they were considering demolishing the structure due to high maintenance costs.
