Crews from all five Santa Monica fire stations participated in the coordinated training, which centered on familiarization with the newly installed beam gate at the temporary vehicle ramp on the north side of the pier. Firefighters and ambulance operators were observed inspecting, operating, and securing the barrier system, which now serves as a primary control point for emergency and delivery access.
During the session, personnel worked through the mechanical components of the gate, including lifting, locking, and release procedures, while coordinating as a team to simulate real-world response conditions. Fire apparatus and support vehicles were staged nearby as part of the exercise.
Santa Monica Fire Department Battalion Chief James Altman said the training was part of broader preparation efforts tied to the evolving construction environment.
“Today, our crew—the A platoon—is coming out here to do some familiarization with the pier,” Altman said. “With all the construction going on and everything that’s happening with the pier bridge remodel, our crews are identifying access points and how we’re going to travel into and away from the pier should something happen. It’s about making sure we have eyes on the changes and understand the response plan.”
The training reflects adjustments required following the recent shift in vehicle access. The temporary ramp, which saw its first full day of operation earlier this week, now serves as the primary route for emergency and delivery vehicles, replacing the former Colorado Avenue access point, which has been closed to vehicular traffic.
The beam gate installed at the ramp is operated during designated hours to allow controlled entry, and emergency responders must be able to quickly access and navigate the system under time-sensitive conditions.
Elsewhere on the pier, construction activity continued alongside the training. Crews with Shimmick Construction Company were observed advancing deck work near the Santa Monica Pier Carousel, placing and aligning timber deck boards over exposed structural framing. Nearby, Malcolm Drilling crews continued deep foundation drilling operations for columns that will support the upcoming temporary pedestrian bridge.
The Pier Bridge Replacement Project is a $35 million infrastructure effort to replace the aging 1939-era bridge connecting Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue to the Santa Monica Pier. The new structure is designed to meet modern seismic and safety standards while improving long-term access ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games.
Santa Monica Closeup continues to document infrastructure developments and public safety operations across Santa Monica and the Westside.
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