Santa Monica Pier Neon Sign Removal for Bridge Upgrade
The Santa Monica Pier neon sign, a beloved Southern California landmark, is being temporarily removed as part of an essential bridge replacement project. Visitors need not worry, as the historic sign is not gone forever; it will undergo careful restoration before returning to its rightful home. According to the City of Santa Monica, the removal of the 87-year-old bridge connecting the pier to downtown is underway, with the sign expected to come down by the end of September 2026.
Restoration Process and Return Date
City officials confirmed that the iconic marker is receiving a complete historical restoration by the renowned sign-making firm YESCO in Las Vegas. Dismantling the 20-foot-tall blue arched structure requires cranes, careful power disconnection, and protective transport frames. While the original 1941 signβfeaturing the classic phrase “Santa Monica Yacht Harbor β Sport Fishing β Boating β Cafes”βis away for up to a year, a half-scale replica has been installed near temporary pedestrian walkways. The entire $USD bridge replacement and modernization project, designed to meet modern seismic standards and improve pedestrian paths, is scheduled for completion in December 2027.
