Avila Beach pier closed indefinitely for repairs

AVILA BEACH, Calif. -- The Avila Beach pier, a popular whale-watching spot, has been closed indefinitely while structural engineers evaluate how much weight it can carry and what repairs need to be made.

The San Luis Obispo Tribune reports that large crowds have been flocking to the pier in recent days as humpback whales have come into the Port San Luis Harbor area, raising officials' concerns about its structural capabilities.

Harbor district manager Steve McGrath says A repair plan is being developed and grants being sought for what is estimated could be a $1 million-plus project.

The pier was built in 1908 and has been repaired after several storms over the years. Last winter the pier was briefly closed to repair damage from large surf.