MacMillan Pier Construction Update
Overview of the Project - MacMillan Pier, for construction purposes, is divided into three parts: the Approach Section, which runs from the shore to the first finger pier, the Main Section running from that point to the end of the Pier, and the Tee Section, which will be constructed eastward from the end of the main pier.

In order for all businesses to continue to operate during construction, the Pier will be built in stages. This will be accomplished in the following stages:

Stage 1 Approach Section - east side seaward
Stage 2A Tee Section
Stage 2B Approach Section - east side beach end
Stage 2C Main Section - west side.
Stage 3 Main Section - east side
Stage 4 Approach Section - west side

Stage 1 - Approach Pier - East Side - Consists of constructing a length of new pier 22 feet wide along the side of the old pier. When completed Stage 1 and Stage 2B will be 56 feet wide. All piles for this section have been driven into place. Concrete caps, edge beams, sidewalk and deck planks are now being installed. Most of these pieces are pre-cast and will be delivered by truck. When everything is in place, concrete will be poured over the entire Section. Once this section is completed a bridge (wooden pilings already in place) will be built from the MPL parking lot over to the new section, which will continue access to the Pier. Stage 1 work is scheduled for completion by October. Work will then begin on Stage 2B - Approach Section - beach end.

Stage 2A - Tee Section portion will begin when the piles are delivered. The Tee Section piles are a new type called a tapertube. The tapertube pile resembles a pencil because the end is fitted with a pointed steel tip. Pile driving is expected to begin around July 15. In response to noise concerns, we have asked the engineers to investigate alternative methods that would reduce the noise factor associated with driving piles. The schedule calls for the Tee to be completed by December 2001. This stage is especially important because all fishing operations will be able to move onto the Tee while the main and approach sections are constructed.

Storm Drain Upgrade - Included in the project is the reconstruction of four storm drain systems adjacent to MacMillan Pier. These systems have now been completed and are in operation. Special below grade structures called “Vortechnics Units” resembling a Title 5 septic tank, intercept the direct discharge of stormwater into the bay and remove up to 90% of total suspended solids including most debris such as cigarette butts. Fecal matter from animals and birds is also given the opportunity to digest as in a Title 5 system. Hydrocarbons, as in oil drippings on the roadways, are allowed to evaporate after being separated from the rest of the flow in the tank. They will require annual maintenance and inspection. This single ½ million dollar facet of the Pier project is now contributing enormously to improved water quality in our harbor.