The Pismo Pier Overhaul Is Complete — Ahead of Schedule and Under Budget

November 7, 2018
After being closed for 18 months while undergoing a full rehabilitation, the popular Pismo Pier has finally reopened. Locals and visitors alike are excited to once again enjoy the historic city landmark, whose major facelift was completed ahead of schedule and under budget.

Cannon is proud of our long partnership with the City of Pismo Beach and we were thrilled to provide construction management, inspection, and funding administration services for this $8.8 million overhaul. The multi-year project began in March 2017 and was concluded by October 2018, seven months ahead of schedule and below the initial budget.

“We’re grateful for the team at Cannon who helped make this special project a success,” said Patrick Riddell, Cannon’s Construction Management Division Manager. “We’re especially thankful for the contributions of Charlie Gray, our on-site Construction Manager, who was instrumental in driving this complex rehabilitation across the finish line.”

Hosting just under one million visitors each year from all around the world, the Pismo Pier is an iconic symbol of classic California culture — but it was overdue for a renovation.

Originally built in its current location in 1924, the Pier has taken on its share of damage over the years. Major storms damaged the south side of the pier’s sea wall very early in its existence, slicing off a 500-foot stretch at the end of the pier that was never replaced. Another storm wreaked havoc in 1983, forcing a rebuild in 1985-1986 which resulted in the current — and much-loved — four-diamond layout.

The 2017-2018 rehabilitation project was carefully planned to preserve the pier’s existing configuration and footprint while making several improvements, including structural repairs and installation of updated decking, information boards, public art, and utilities running the length of the structure to facilitate more events. The renovated structure extends for over 1,200 feet, making it the 18th longest pier in California.

The freshly updated Pismo Pier was unveiled to the public on October 20th as part of the 72nd annual Clam Festival. Thousands of people turned out to enjoy the celebratory event and get a first-hand look at the renovations. The team at Cannon is honored to be included on a new plaque which commemorates the pier and its importance in the community.