Officials Call For Federal Funding To Repair Pacifica Pier Damage

PACIFICA, CA — The recent closure of Pacifica's Municipal Pier and demolition of the Chit Chat Cafe have renewed calls for federal investment in the city's aging coastal infrastructure.

Rep. Sam Liccardo sent a letter to FEMA on Friday urging the agency to support funding and timeline extensions for major Pacifica shoreline protection projects, arguing that the pier damage highlights the risks facing the coast.

A major crack discovered June 4 forced the city to close the pier indefinitely and shut down the adjoining cafe.

"[This is] yet another reminder of the urgent needs facing Pacifica's coastal infrastructure, including the pier, roads, small businesses, utilities, and homes threatened by flooding and storm surges," Liccardo wrote.

The congressman said the city needs federal assistance because of the scale of the repairs and Pacifica's limited tax base.

"Given the cost of the necessary repairs and the City's modest tax base, the City requires federal support to ensure the safety of its residents," he wrote.

Liccardo's letter focused heavily on the Beach Boulevard Infrastructure Resiliency Project, which would rebuild the seawall adjacent to the pier and strengthen the pier's sheet pile wall.

The project was previously shortlisted for FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program but has not received funding.

Liccardo argued the delay has already had consequences.

"While I appreciate that FEMA has reinstated BRIC, it's unfortunate that Pacifica has lost valuable time on a project that would prevent damage exactly like the damage that occurred at the pier last week," he wrote.

The letter also urged FEMA to reconsider guidance affecting Pacifica's Esplanade Infrastructure Preservation Project, which is intended to stabilize an eroding coastal bluff and protect a roadway and underground utilities serving residents, businesses and visitors.

Liccardo noted that both projects have faced years of delays tied to environmental review, Coastal Commission requirements and property acquisition disputes.

Despite those challenges, he said Pacifica remains committed to completing the projects.

"As ground zero for coastal erosion in California, the City has a proven track record of high-quality coastal infrastructure investments," Liccardo wrote.

Meanwhile, crews continue working to stabilize the damaged pier. Officials said approximately 150 large boulders are being placed along both sides of the structure during low tide to prevent further deterioration while engineers evaluate long-term repair options.

Pacifica has declared a local emergency in response to the damage.