A familiar part of Santa Monica’s waterfront is moving temporarily. The historic blue entrance sign at the Santa Monica Pier is scheduled to undergo restoration in Las Vegas while the city rebuilds the bridge connecting Ocean Avenue to the pier.

The sign dates to 1941 and still reads “Santa Monica Yacht Harbor.” Plans call for crews to dismantle it in sections before transporting it to YESCO for restoration. September reports indicate that its removal is approaching, although an exact date has not been confirmed.

The work is part of a broader effort to improve waterfront access. Built in 1939, the existing bridge no longer meets modern structural and earthquake safety standards. Its replacement will include a 15-foot-wide sidewalk, providing more space for pedestrians and cyclists traveling to and from the pier. The city expects construction to finish before the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

For visitors, the project will change the arrival experience, but the pier will remain open. A temporary pedestrian bridge provides access to its businesses and attractions, and a replica of the entrance sign has been installed during the construction period. Visitors can still include a version of the familiar landmark in their waterfront photos.

The original sign is expected to return after the bridge work, with recent reporting placing its return in late 2027. Its time away is intended to preserve a piece of Santa Monica’s history as the surrounding infrastructure receives a much-needed upgrade.