Naples Pier Clears Key Federal Hurdle, Moves Closer to Reconstruction After Hurricane Ian Destruction

The iconic Naples Pier, a cherished community landmark since 1888, is one step closer to reconstruction following catastrophic damage sustained during Hurricane Ian in September 2022. According to the City of Naples, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officially confirmed on May 5, 2025, that the Pier passed the required 50% damage threshold test and is eligible for in-kind replacement under federal funding guidelines.

The Naples Pier has long stood as a symbol of the city's coastal identity, attracting over a million annual visitors who gather to fish, exercise, enjoy concessions, and admire wildlife against the Gulf of Mexico backdrop. Over the decades, the structure has been rebuilt multiple times following hurricane damage—in 1910, 1926, 1944, 1960, and again in 2015. After Hurricane Irma struck in 2017, the City worked to extend the life of the aging 1990s-era pilings with modern pile jackets.

Hurricane Ian dealt the most significant blow in recent history. Approximately 460 feet of the pier was severely damaged, with the final 140 feet—including over 30 pilings and the end shelter—sinking into the Gulf. Midpoint structures such as the concession stand, shelter, and storage units were entirely gutted by waves. Engineers determined that nearly all remaining structural elements were compromised, making full replacement necessary to ensure safety and resilience.

In the wake of the storm, the City launched a comprehensive redevelopment plan for a modernized pier designed to meet federal, state, and local standards. The scope includes not just architectural enhancements but also engineering improvements aimed at durability and environmental sensitivity. These include raising the pier’s elevation by three feet, increasing pile spacing to reduce shoreline impact, and reinforcing the IPE wood decking with larger concrete supports.

Architecture and engineering duties are led by Turrell, Hall & Associates (THA) in partnership with MHK Architecture. Shoreline Foundation, Inc. was awarded the construction contract in October 2024 for $23.5 million. Construction is expected to take 18 months once a Notice to Proceed is issued.

The City has navigated a complex approval process involving the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Marine Fisheries Service under the Endangered Species Act. FEMA has also been reviewing the City’s request for federal reimbursement throughout this process.

Below is a timeline of key milestones:

• September 28, 2022 – Hurricane Ian devastates the Naples Pier, destroying nearly half the structure.

• November 9, 2022 – Limited public access reopened.

• November 30, 2022 – Emergency permit application submitted to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

• January 9, 2023 – Design RFP issued.

• February 15, 2023 – FEMA application filed.

• April 19, 2023 – Contract with THA and MHK Architecture approved.

• October 16, 2023 – 90% Design Plans approved.

• March 5, 2024 – Construction bidding begins.

• June 27, 2024 – Bidding period closes.

• July 29, 2024 – Project update presented to City Council.

• October 2, 2024 – Shoreline Foundation Inc. awarded $23.5M construction contract.

• November 21, 2024 – FDEP issues final construction authorization.

• December 11, 2024 – CEI services added to design contract.

• February 21, 2025 – FEMA confirms City’s documentation is under final review.

• April 7, 2025 – Supplemental environmental information submitted.

• May 5, 2025 – FEMA confirms eligibility for in-kind replacement.

As federal approvals near completion, anticipation grows for the return of one of Southwest Florida’s most beloved destinations. The rebuilt Naples Pier promises to blend tradition with innovation—preserving its historic charm while enhancing resilience for generations to come. Source Credits: City of Naples Florida