Project Manager: Darra Woods, (760) 435-5094 or DWoods@oceansideca.org

Project #: CIP19-00011

Program: Measure X, TransNet

Current Phase: Design

The City of Oceanside is a Southern California coastal locale with a thriving downtown scene, and easy access to both Los Angeles and San Diego, miles of beautiful beaches, unique architecture, historic buildings, and an efficient transportation hub. A favorite spot for locals and visitors alike is the iconic Oceanside Pier.

What is the Project?

The Pier View Way Bridge ("Pier Bridge") is the primary entrance and exit to the Oceanside Municipal Pier, located at the western terminus of Pier View Way in Oceanside, California. This structure was designed by Oceanside City Engineer R.L. Loucks, C.E. in 1926 and completed in 1927. The bridge was originally constructed with a public dining room at the western end of the concrete structure where it abuts the wooden pier, but in 1987 this was converted to the Lifeguard Headquarters which is still present today. Despite maintenance efforts over the years the structure, including the Lifeguard Headquarters, needs significant rehabilitation or replacement. At the same time, the Lifeguard Service has outgrown the current Lifeguard Headquarters facility, and additionally space is required for current and future operational needs. 

The project provides an opportunity to address both the condition of the Pier Bridge and the space needs of the Lifeguard Service which operates out of the headquarters, while simultaneously enhancing these spaces to improve the overall public experience, access, and usability.

The project consists of the following phases:

• Phase 1 Schematic Design (Completed in August 2023)
• Phase 2 Preliminary Design & Environmental (Current Phase)
• Phase 3 Final Design & Permitting 
• Phase 4 Construction 

Background & Next Steps 

The Oceanside City Council, at its August 23, 2023, meeting, approved City's staff's recommendation to reconstruct the Pier Bridge and Lifeguard Headquarters, including the construction of a new Lifeguard Service Facility. 

The decision by the City Council to proceed with reconstructing the Pier Bridge comes after the completion of Phase I of the project, which commenced in summer of 2021. Phase I included a review of existing drawings, field investigations, preliminary historical, geotechnical, and coastal studies, as well as sea level rise and stormwater studies. Public engagement played an important role in Phase I and is reflected in the preliminary schematic design and recommendations on how to move forward. 

The project is now in Phase II, which includes development of preliminary design plans and the preparation of the required environmental review documentation pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). In this phase, City staff will also seek to ensure permitting in accordance with the City's Local Coastal Program and the California Coastal Act.

The reconstructed Pier Bridge would closely resemble the existing structure. While not officially designed as historic, it has been identified as potentially significant and qualified  as a historic resource under CEQA. The Oceanside Historic Preservation Advisory Commission voted unanimously in favor of the staff-recommended option at its July meeting. 

Reconstructing the Pier Bridge and constructing a new Lifeguard Service Facility is estimated to cost approximately $40 million (in today's current dollars). Funding for the entire project has not yet been secured, but is expected to come partially from Measure X, which funded Phase I. Possible supplemental funding sources include grants, bonds, loans and other state and federal sources. 

• Notice of Preparation Scoping Meeting 2-7-24 Presentation (PDF)
• Notice of Preparation Scoping Meeting 2-7-24 Presentation (Spanish)
• Notice of Preparation Scoping Meeting 2-7-24 Recording 

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