On Thursday, September 12, 2024, Pier maintenance personnel began the process of converting public restroom facilities at the Santa Monica Pier to all-gender restrooms. The crew was seen removing the existing women's restroom signs, which will be replaced with new, inclusive signage allowing both men and women to utilize the restrooms.
This conversion is part of a larger city-wide initiative to promote inclusivity and accessibility for all visitors. The effort, supported by a $40,000 grant from the office of Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Lindsey P. Horvath, aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender identity, feels welcome while enjoying the iconic Santa Monica Pier and beaches.
The newly designated all-gender restrooms will also benefit caregivers and parents who need to assist someone of a different gender. "Santa Monica is known around the world as a welcoming place where anyone can be free to be themselves," said Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock. "As we take this meaningful step, I encourage everyone to take part in enjoying our Pier and beach and spending the day in our beautiful city."
Phase I of the project, which includes installing new door signage, is expected to be completed by the end of August. The following phase will introduce new wayfinding signage throughout the area, set to be finished by spring 2025.
With this move, Santa Monica continues to lead in fostering equity and inclusion, having already earned a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index for five consecutive years.
Stay tuned for further updates as the project progresses toward its completion.
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