Terrorism risk may keep Foster City pier closed

The pier is the original San Mateo Bridge - once the longest in the world - and is the longest in California. It was shut down in 1996 because it had fallen into disrepair. If it is re-opened, Romero is concerned that the CHP won't have the resources to properly patrol it - along with the bridge.

"We've been against it from day one," Romero said.

However, the San Mateo County Parks and Recreation Department has been studying the possibility of opening the pier for approximately one year, said Senior Planner Sam Herzberg. The planning has included public meetings and focus groups, Herzberg said.

"Two years ago, we weren't in the same security [situation]," Herzberg said.

And that's not to say that the security situation may change in the future, he added. However, the renovation project is also on hold because of funding concerns.

The renovation is estimated to cost between $3.2 million and $7.2 million - money the county currently does not have, Herzberg said.

"Right now, this minute, we don't have the money. But that could change in the future," Herzberg said.

The San Mateo County Parks and Recreation Commission is scheduled to hear a report on a feasibility study on pier renovations at its meeting today. Even though security and costs may preclude any work from happening right now, Herzberg believes moving ahead with the study is appropriate.

"It may not be the most opportune time in regards to funding, but we could lay the groundwork for future improvement," he said.

The land is owned by the county even though the pier is in Foster City.

Jon Mays can be reached by e-mail at jon@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 107. What do you think of this story? Send a letter to the editor: letters@smdailyjournal.com.