Fishing rod holders, benches and extensions that serve as lounging areas are some of the ideas the Port of San Diego has come up with to revamp Imperial Beach’s iconic pier.

The hope is that the improvements will make it “one of the nicest piers in California,” Port commissioner Dan Malcolm told the City Council before sharing the conceptual ideas last week.

His presentation came three months after the council — in a change of plans — requested that the Port ditch controversial plans for a public restroom and shower station near homes on Seacoast Drive and instead invest in the pier. The request came in response to push back from residents who insisted that the bathrooms/showers would become a magnet for crime.

Malcolm said commissioners approved the reallocation of funds, roughly $1.8 million, in October.


Malcolm said he envisions the plan as a catalyst for other other projects in the area, which the city has spent “time and energy” to enhance.

The plan is to redesign the pier into three “zones” — for fishing, lounging and watching surfers — in two phases, one for short-term upgrades, the other for long-term infrastructure improvements.

Ideas for short-term improvements include: painted distance markers (to encourage the public to walk to the end of the pier), placards with fun sayings along the railing, fishing rod holders mounted on sections of the railing and a fresh paint job for the railing, lifeguard tower, restrooms and The Tin Fish restaurant at the end of the pier, as well as new benches, fish cleaning stations and drinking fountains.

Ideas for the second phase include two extensions, with seating, shade structures and cable railing.


During the council meeting, Malcolm suggested that one extension be for fishing and the other be for lounging — an idea the council liked.

Some of the feedback from council members centered on a desire for a restaurant with a view, outdoor seating and multiple stories.

“I think we’re really missing out on a great opportunity,” Councilman Robert Patton said.

Councilman Ed Spriggs echoed Patton’s comments, adding that it would generate revenue generate for the Port via a lease and for the city by way of taxes.


Malcolm agreed. He said he envisions two restaurants at the end of the pier, calling that the “ultimate goal.” He said the idea, which would require engineering and millions of dollars, could be pursued as part of a third phase.

Councilman Mark West asked that the first phase include a gas line for The Tin Fish, which he said faces challenges by relying on electricity.

Malcolm said the plan is to start short-term upgrades next year and long-term improvements in 2021.

The city’s first pier was built in 1963. Later destroyed by a storm, the pier was rebuilt in the 1980s. A major upgrade was completed in 2006, and in 2014, the Port replaced about 1,500 planks on the pier deck.


The pier, which is shaped like an arrow, stretches 1,500 feet.