SANTA MONICA—On Wednesday, September 23, the city of Santa Monica announced that the Moomat Ahiko Way on- and off-ramps providing access to and from Pacific Coast Highway are expected to fully close for approximately two months starting as early as Monday, September 28.
Work will be part of the Santa Monica Pier Bridge Replacement Project and will include demolition activities of the final portion of the old Pier bridge followed by construction of the new bridge columns. This will be the largest portion of the bridge demolished since the start of the project. Crews will use the closed ramps to ensure motorists’ safety and to stage necessary equipment to perform these activities.
Motorists traveling southbound on Pacific Coast Highway will be directed to either exit at the California Incline or continue on eastbound I-10 to Lincoln Boulevard. Motorists wanting to access PCH from Ocean Avenue should continue northbound to the California Incline.
The Santa Monica Pier will remain open throughout the closure, including all restaurants, shops, attractions, businesses and amenities. Visitors can continue to access the Pier by following posted signage directing to alternate routes and parking facilities.
Visitors are asked to plan ahead and allow extra time while traveling to and from the Pier during the temporary closure.
The Santa Monica Pier Bridge Replacement Project will replace the nearly 87-year-old bridge that serves as the primary vehicle access to the Pier. The project will improve safety, accessibility and the long-term reliability of this important connection while maintaining access to the Pier throughout construction whenever possible.
Santa Monica is replacing the iconic Santa Monica Pier Bridge, which serves as the only vehicular and a key pedestrian connection between Ocean Avenue and Santa Monica Pier, one of the city’s most popular destinations.
Originally constructed in 1939, the 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.
The replacement bridge will preserve the character and scenic views of the historic route while addressing critical structural deficiencies. Construction is underway and is expected to be completed before the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
For updates on the project and to signup for construction alerts visit: santamonica.gov/programs/pier-bridge-improvements.
By Danny Jones