Pacifica Pier cafe demolition begins after massive crack discovered

PACIFICA, Calif. (KGO) -- Demolition of the popular Chit Chat cafe on the Pacifica Pier has begun as a growing crack in the structure continues to worsen, drawing crowds of onlookers to the waterfront.

Residents have gathered daily since the crack was first discovered last week, watching the condition of the building rapidly deteriorate.

Crowds have reported their observations of how over the past few days, the building have become visibly leaning.

Photos released by the City of Pacifica showed the crack expanding between June 4 and June 5.

By Monday, June 9, the damage had become significantly more severe.

A section of roadway in front of the cafe has been closed, with community members gathering on both sides to observe the changes to the structure.

Many residents expressed sadness not only about the damage to the cafe, but also about the impact on the pier as a community gathering space.

RELATED: Community shares memories as iconic Pacifica Pier slips closer to sea after massive crack discovered

"That's what makes me sad, the whole thing is closed down, and so, like, so many other people say it, it's such a gathering point, it's a great place to watch a sunset and bring the kids, and yeah, it's sad because they're probably not going to fix it," Pacifica resident Jennifer Colombo said.

The future of the pier was discussed during a Pacifica City Council meeting Sunday night.

City officials said a 2023 assessment estimated it would cost about $19 million to reinforce the pier.

That estimate did not include the damage sustained last week, and officials said the total cost is likely now much higher.

Pacifica City Council members said they are exploring options to secure county, state and federal funding. Officials are also examining whether previously awarded grant money could be used for the project.

Community members said they want to help support the city's efforts, and public-private initiatives are also under discussion.

Residents say they are holding onto the memories as they await answers on the pier's future.

If you like to donate to Chit Chat Cafe's GoFundMe, here's a link.