Naples Pier rebuild brings hope, visitors recall cherished moments

The Naples Pier, a beloved spot for visitors like family friends Lara Hines and Jerry Thamann, has long been a symbol of cherished memories.

This crew from Cincinnati has been visiting the pier for 30 years, making it their go-to spot during the Christmas break.

"We've been coming down here for probably 30 years. We're in old Naples by the pier, and this is kind of our spot during the Christmas break," said Hines.

The iconic pier has seen both good and bad days. It was devastated by Hurricane Ian, leaving it in disrepair for over three years.

"It's destroyed. The hurricane wiped it out. We were here when the hurricane hit, stayed in the house," said Thamann. "The devastation was unbelievable."

Despite the damage, Hines remains optimistic about the pier's future.

"You're tired of looking at it, honestly, so it's a good thing. It's a good change that it's coming - and sad - hopefully it's worth it," said Hines.

Hines treasures the decades of memories associated with the pier, recalling moments spent with her children.

"Just having my boys when they were little, now in their 30s, used to walk down, get ice cream, get food, watch the fish and the seagulls, everything," she said.

Even though the pier, a staple of their vacations, was damaged, their family paradise remains intact as they look forward to the future.

"We're happy. They're finally going to start working on this pier," said Thamann.

Hines added, "I just want it to be built back again. Make it beautiful."

The Naples Pier continues to hold a special place in the hearts of its visitors, as they eagerly anticipate its restoration.