Naples Pier rebuild set to begin more than 3 years after Hurricane Ian

NAPLES, Fla. —

The long-awaited rebuild of the Naples Pier is finally ready to start. The city of Naples will hold a groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. 5, 2026, at 10 a.m., open to the public.

The iconic pier has been a favorite spot for fishing, sightseeing and beachgoers for more than a century. But in September 2022, Hurricane Ian caused catastrophic damage, destroying more than 30 pilings and sending about 140 feet of the structure into the Gulf.

In the months after the storm, the city began a lengthy process to rebuild the pier, including applying for emergency permits, seeking funding from FEMA and completing required state and federal environmental reviews.

By early 2023, the city moved forward with a full redesign. Final plans were completed in 2024, and a $23.5 million construction contract was awarded that fall. Federal approvals through FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers came in 2025, clearing the way for construction.

The rebuild will include new, larger pilings driven into the seafloor, raising the pier at least 3 feet higher than before to better withstand future storms. The design also reduces the number of pilings, increases the space between them and adds bump-outs to create more room for visitors while limiting impact on the shoreline.

Visitors have eagerly waited for the pier’s return.

“A little disappointed because we wanted to go out on the pier,” said Becky Elkins from Indiana.

“It’s crazy to see how much damage a storm can do, but it’s really exciting they’re finally rebuilding it. Hopefully the fishing’s good next time I’m back,” said Zach Rogers from New Jersey.

The city says the rebuilt pier will provide a safer, more resilient structure for future storms. Construction is expected to take about 18 months.

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