SAN DIEGO — More than six months after a fire severely burned the Oceanside Pier, crews started the million-dollar demolition on the torched portion that includes the former Ruby's Diner building.
According to the City of Oceanside, the total demolition will cost nearly $1.3 million.
In an interview with Oceanside City Engineer Brian Thomas early this month, he said it would be a long and difficult process. In all, repairs could take two to three years and cost potentially $20 million.
A blaze erupted on the end of the pier inside the Ruby's Diner building in April. This prompted a multi-agency effort that continued for more than 24 hours, city officials said. Crews were able to save roughly 95% of the 1,950-foot-long wooden structure, and about 80% of the pier reopened two weeks later.
Crews did not want to close the pier to the public while they made lasting repairs. Thomas said the pier would only close for an hour or two if needed at all.
"The idea is to keep the pier open for the use and enjoyment of the public," Thomas said.
Crews began the first part of the demolition process in early October. They will be installing scaffolding sets, which will help prevent any toxic debris from falling into the water, making sure the ocean and marine life is protected.
The next step included the set up of scaffolding, as crews turned their focus to the demolition of the old Ruby's Diner building. Demolition also includes removing the deck planking and the rails around the pier.
Once that is done, crews will be able to evaluate further repairs needed.