PORT ANGELES – Work to fix the City Pier observation tower in Port Angeles has started.

The city’s contractor, Rognlin’s, Inc., began work Monday on structural repairs to the landmark tower that has been closed since last November due to safety concerns.

Repairs include the replacement of four column supports and enhancement of connections between the wood pilings and the observation tower. Additionally, the project involves replacing deteriorated wood decking, removing paint, and recoating.

The work should be finished by June. The project requires the closure of the tower and sections of the City Pier facility. However, authorities assure no additional disruptions to pedestrian, vehicular, or marine traffic.

The tower closure happened on November 21 last year following a maintenance inspection uncovering severe structural deficiencies caused by saltwater corrosion.

In February, the City Council approved the use of $574,464 from lodging tax funds for repairs, following the recommendation of the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee