Veronica PiscitelliFort Myers Beach Pier has been a missing coastal landmark since it was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in late September 2022. Now, the reconstruction project to build a new pier twice the size of the previous structure has just entered a new development phase.
Lee County submitted permit requests in September 2024 to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers detailing the project. On April 21 of this year, the Army Corps issued an official public notice about the pier construction saying it was opening a forum for community feedback. Since then, many community members have noted the absence of the pier. Additionally, they mentioned the unique experience of being able to spend the evening watching the sunset from the pier. Many residents say they see the $11.5 million cost of construction as worthwhile.
The design for the new Fort Myers Beach Pier sits at 60% completion and is progressing toward 90% complete according to Lee County Officials. Costs of the design phase will exceed $1 million, while the construction phase is estimated to cost $11.5 million. FEMA is providing some funding for the pier. Other money will come from the tourist development taxes collected specifically from short-term lodging in the area.
Construction is expected to begin in late 2026 and take approximately one year to complete.
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Kullez via Wikimedia Commons
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