Crews in Oceanside, California have started demolishing the end of the Oceanside Pier that was damaged by a fire five months ago. The fire, which occurred on April 25, destroyed parts of the western end of the pier, including the iconic Ruby’s Diner and a fast-food kiosk. Fortunately, firefighters were able to contain the fire before it spread to other areas of the pier.
According to Brian Thomas, the city engineer of Oceanside, the demolition is necessary before the reconstruction of the damaged parts of the pier can begin. The demolition work that began on Wednesday involved cutting and removing the steel frame of the diner. To ensure safety, construction workers have installed a temporary platform under the pier to catch any falling debris.
Thomas mentioned that the extent of the rebuild will depend on the structural damage caused by the fire. The demolition process is expected to be challenging as crews need to balance safety measures with the uncertainty of the pier’s stability. Some floor supports were found to be compromised by the fire, adding to the complexity of the project.
To prevent debris from falling into the water, construction crews have implemented a fall protection and debris containment system. Contingency plans are also in place to retrieve any debris that may end up in the water. Thomas emphasized the importance of following safety protocols and ensuring that the demolition is carried out meticulously.
Once the demolition is finished, the city of Oceanside will move forward with plans to rebuild the pier. This includes applying for permits, securing funding, and starting the reconstruction process. City officials anticipate that the entire process could take three to four years to complete.
The rebuilding of the Oceanside Pier is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and execution. The community eagerly awaits the restoration of this beloved landmark and looks forward to enjoying the pier once again in the future.
