Naples Pier groundbreaking ceremony set for Monday

Naples is gearing up for a long-awaited moment as the iconic Naples Pier, closed for three years since Hurricane Ian, is set to undergo reconstruction. This marks a significant development for both locals and visitors who have eagerly awaited the pier's return.

Todd Alexander, a visitor to Naples, expressed his anticipation.

"That's one of the things that just is tough now, like, you can only walk to right here, and you want to get all the way down there and experience it," said Alexander.

For many, the pier offers a unique experience with the waves, the sound, and the Gulf breeze.

"It was beautiful being able to walk all the way down there and get closer to the water," said Alexander.

Alexander shared the sentiment many feel about the delay.

"We were just talking like, when are they gonna start doing something with this?" he said.

Tom Sanicki, another visitor, echoed the frustration over the wait.

"Why doesn’t it happen sooner. I don't know. It's kind of what you think they get rebuilt real quick, because this is where people come and visit, and they like that. It's the kind of people who come here from all over the country, all over the world. They love the pier," said Sanicki.

For Tom and Kayte Sanicki, the pier holds cherished memories.

"So many wonderful memories with our family out here. Kids watch a bunch of people fishing. I mean, we were out here, just they're watching what they catch, so fun, and when the pier was gone, it's not the same," they said.

Now, the wait is finally coming to an end.

"We're really excited for it to get rebuilt," said Alexander.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the pier's reconstruction is scheduled for Monday at 10 a.m.

"We can't wait. It's so nice that it's moving along. Yeah, it is good to get it back. I hope for everybody, for everyone who visits, it's like a focal point of Naples," said the Sanickis.

Visitors planning to attend the ceremony should note that the Naples Pier parking lot will be closed until 11:30 a.m.