Pacifica Council Declares Emergency + Demolition of Chit Chat Cafe
Facing a relentless and rapidly changing coastline, the Pacifica City Council voted unanimously to declare an emergency over severe structural damage at the Pacifica Municipal Pier. As part of the emergency declaration, officials authorized the immediate demolition of the iconic Chit Chat Cafe. The 53-year-old municipal pier and the abutting local eatery sustained severe damage last week following an aggressive barrage of waves and coastal erosion. The resulting cracks and displacement of the concrete walkway left the facility structurally unsafe. Wrecking crews quickly moved to clear the cafe structure, a beloved hub for local fishermen and the coastal community.
While the cafe's demolition was swift, the pier's long-term future remains heavily debated. The City Council heard from emotional residents who urged the city to find a way to save or rebuild the iconic landmark. Finding a path forward will not be cheap. City engineers previously estimated that shoring up the pier would cost around $19 million, a 2023 figure that does not account for the most recent damage. City officials are actively exploring county, state, and federal grants to fund the necessary repairs or a potential total rebuild. You can track future updates or review meeting agendas on Ch. 26 or worldwide @ www.PacificCoast.tv
