Long Beach was a core component of Los Angeles’s successful bid for the Olympic Games, which will take place throughout the county in 2028. But before the event happens, the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier, a key waterfront component, will need to be replaced. 

The Long Beach Press-Telegram spoke with city officials about the pier, which is scheduled to be a viewing area for sailing competitions. According to Assistant City Manager Tom Modica, a recent study had already deemed the 50-year old pier was reaching the end of its useful life. Now, there’s a more pressing need to find a solution.

“There’s no question that the pier needs major work right now,” Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia told the paper. “It’s in massive need of repair. It’s underutilized, and we’re going to come up with a plan to make it a great showcase for the city. 

Modica estimates the cost of rebuilding the pier would be similar to that of repairing it. That price tag currently sits between $25 million and $35 million, according to his rough estimates.

Long Beach plays a major role in the upcoming Olympic Games, as one of four major venues for events, along with Carson, Downtown Los Angeles, and Encino. According to the LA Olympic Committee, the Long Beach Sports Park would host BMX, handball, marathon swimming, sailing, triathlon and Paralympic triathlon, and water polo. The setup would also include music, dining, and sponsorship installations for both ticket holders and the community.