Hermosa Beach, CA--The iconic Bank of America building on Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach, a fixture of the local landscape since 1927, now sits empty and waiting for its next chapter. The closure of the branch earlier this year marked the end of an era, but it also sparked a lively debate among locals about what should come next for this historic site.
A Piece of History Goes Dark
For nearly a century, the Bank of America building at 90 Pier Avenue has been a cornerstone of the Hermosa Beach community. With its classic architecture and central location, the building was more than just a bank—it was a symbol of stability and continuity in a town that has seen its fair share of changes over the years.
But as with many traditional banking institutions, the rise of digital banking led to a decline in foot traffic. The once-bustling branch saw fewer and fewer visitors, with 90% of customers opting to manage their finances online. Ultimately, the decision was made to close the branch, and on February 13, 2024, the doors were shut for the last time (Easy Reader News) (Bank Locator).
What Now?
Now that the Bank of America signs have been taken down, the building stands as a blank canvas. The question on everyone’s mind is: What should go in the BofA building on Pier Ave?
A Few Ideas from the Locals
In a town known for its vibrant beach culture, the possibilities for the building’s future seem endless. Some locals have suggested turning the space into a community center or cultural hub, where residents can gather for events, art exhibitions, and local performances. Others envision a trendy new restaurant or café that could become the latest hotspot for both locals and tourists alike.
One popular idea floating around is the creation of a co-working space. With more people working remotely, a stylish and comfortable shared office space could cater to Hermosa Beach’s growing community of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. Imagine a modern, sunlit interior with open desks, private offices, and plenty of meeting rooms—all just steps away from the beach.
There’s also talk of a boutique hotel or bed-and-breakfast. Given the building’s historical significance and prime location, it could be the perfect spot for a charming, beachside retreat. Guests could enjoy the unique architecture, the proximity to the beach, and the small-town charm that Hermosa Beach is famous for.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
Of course, any new development would need to respect the building’s historical status. As one of only three commercial buildings in Hermosa Beach designated for historic preservation, any changes to the structure would be subject to city review. This means that while there’s plenty of room for creativity, the building’s unique character must be preserved (Easy Reader News).
What Do You Think?
As the community continues to speculate about the future of the BofA building, one thing is clear: whatever goes in next will need to capture the spirit of Hermosa Beach. It will need to be a place that brings people together, whether it’s over a cup of coffee, a shared workspace, or a special event.
So, what do you think? Should the building become a hub for local artists? A co-working space with a view? A cozy new restaurant with the best seafood in town? Whatever your vision, one thing’s for sure: the future of this historic site is in the hands of the community.
The next time you walk past the BofA building on Pier Avenue, take a moment to imagine what could be. After all, this isn’t just any old building—it’s a piece of Hermosa Beach history, and its next chapter is waiting to be written.
Let’s make it something special.