Sportfishing Pier to be taken down
by Garth Meyer
The Redondo Beach Sportfishing Pier is set to be demolished.
City council representatives Jan. 17 approved a transfer of $1,163,000 in the Tidelands fund for the project, to go out for an emergency permit from the Coastal Commission.
Wave action from the recent storms further damaged the 1960s-era structure, leading to a city Public Works Department request to move forward on city leaders’ previous intention to take it down.
“Capitola – a strong example, one that we’re desperately trying to avoid,” said City Manager Mike Witzansky.
The $1,163,000 budget from contractor Jilk Heavy Construction, is to be covered by moving money from other local Tidelands projects.
“It’s a net zero on all city fund balances,” said City Engineer Andy Winje.
Witzansky noted that for the projects which the money was transferred from, the city believes there are external sources to pursue to make up the difference.
Jilk is on retainer for pier/waterfront repairs.
The contractor estimates two to three months’ work to complete the tear-down, to be finished before BeachLife Festival in the first week of May.
“Done and dusted by then,” Winje said.
The Army Corps of Engineers requires a 10-day notice of demolition. Coastal Commission emergency permits also need approval from Army Corps, among other agencies. ER