By Lookout Staff

February 9, 2026 -- The City closed a key freeway off-ramp for more than two weeks starting Monday as part of the $35.6 million Pier Bridge reconstruction project.

The Moomat Ahiko Way off-ramp from southbound Pacific Coast Highway will be closed through February 27 to construct the foundation for a temporary pedestrian bridge that will ensure continued access to the Pier throughout the project, City officials said.

"Motorists traveling to the area are advised to allow for extra travel time and use alternate routes during the two-week off-ramp closure period," City officials said.

For the detour from southbound PCH, turn left on California Incline. Turn right to access Ocean Avenue.

From southbound PCH, continue to northbound I-10. Exit Lincoln Avenue and turn left. Turn left on Colorado Ave. and continue to access Ocean Avenue.

"Pier restaurants, shops and entertainment, as well as parking and visitor access will remain open and accessible throughout the Pier Bridge Replacement construction period," officials said.

This will ensure that "residents and visitors can continue to enjoy the Pier with minimal disruption."

Construction of the Pier Bridge -- which connects Ocean and Colorado avenues to the Pier -- officially got underway in December to replace the existing 86-year old structure ("Pier Bridge Construction Officially Begins," December 10, 2025).

The two-year construction project, which is largely bankrolled with Federal funds, is expected to be completed "well ahead" of the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games and have a service life of 75 years, officials said.