Naples Pier redesign sparks debate as concession stand plans scrapped

CAPE CORAL - Construction at the Naples Pier has been underway since January, but recent changes to the design plans are causing a stir among beachgoers. After a city council meeting on Wednesday, it was decided that the updated plans will move forward without a concession stand, a significant alteration to the original design.

The new plans not only eliminate the concession stand, but they also significantly reduce the size of the pier's shoreline structure, with some shaded seating removed from the plans. The amendment to the plans also calls for a spot for beach patrol to be added. 

The council cited safety and congestion reasons for the change in previous meetings.

"I like that idea about the beach patrol," said Kathy Piede, a Naples resident who used to walk on the old pier weekly.

Piede expressed mixed feelings about the removal of concessions.

"As far as the concessions, I bring my own. I only think that maybe tourists who aren't familiar with the area, they may look for something to eat... and that might be a good idea for tourism," said Piede.

Tourist Laurie Godes, who traveled from Wisconsin, shared her perspective.

"I think most people come prepared. They just want to see the ocean," Godes said.

She added, "We always bring snacks, so I'm not really ever looking for that, but you know, sometimes in the afternoon, you might just want a cold beverage or an ice cream cone. So I can see both sides."

The city council had been considering this option for the sake of safety and congestion, and their unanimous vote confirmed the decision. Several council members emphasized the need to find a food-related alternative that caters to locals, tourists, and the pier itself.

"I have faith that they'll pick something desirable and within the limits, because there are homes right here too," said Piede.

City council discussed various food-related alternatives for the pier, including vending machines, mobile carts, and food trucks. It remains unclear which option, if any, will be chosen, but the construction of a concession stand is no longer part of the plan.

WINK News has reached out to the city for more information on the potential food and beverage alternatives to a built-in pier concession stand.

For the latest on the Naples Pier Rebuild Project, head to the city's project webpage linked here.