SANTA MONICA—On June 5, the city of Santa Monica announced that visitors can now access the Santa Monica Pier from a new perspective, with the opening of a temporary pedestrian bridge that will serve as the primary entrance to the historic Pier for the remaining duration of the Pier Bridge Replacement Project.
The temporary bridge is located about 30 feet south of the original pedestrian access point and will keep the Pier and its businesses and attractions fully accessible throughout the replacement project, which is slated to conclude in late 2027.
The temporary bridge features eye-catching artwork, wayfinding elements to help visitors explore different parts of the Pier, and spotlights on local businesses and restaurants.
Following the opening of the temporary bridge, crews will close the current entrance facing Ocean Avenue and will begin to prepare the existing bridge for demolition, which is scheduled for mid-June.
Additional Pier access points will remain available from:
-Ocean Front Walk
-The protected walkway along the temporary vehicle ramp in the Pier parking lot
-Stairs near Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Bikes, skateboards and other small vehicles will not be permitted on the temporary pedestrian bridge and are advised to use Seaside Terrace to access the Pier. Detour and wayfinding signage has been installed throughout the construction zone and the temporary pedestrian bridge.
While construction will introduce a new entrance route, the Santa Monica Pier remains fully open and accessible, with all businesses, attractions, dining and entertainment continuing to operate throughout the project.
Construction on the Pier Bridge Replacement Project began in December 2025 and will replace the 87-year-old bridge connecting Ocean Avenue to the Pier. The new bridge will be a seismically sound structure with improved features and will preserve the character and scenic views of the historic route.
Originally constructed in 1939, and the old bridge no longer meets modern structural or seismic standards. To improve long-term safety, access, and mobility, the city is moving forward with a federally funded replacement project that will deliver a new, seismically sound structure with improved features, including a 15-foot-wide sidewalk to enhance the experience for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Construction is underway and is expected to be completed before the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
By Danny Jones