Groundbreaking date set for new Fort Myers Beach Pier

Lee County will break ground next week on the replacement of the Fort Myers Beach Pier, nearly four years after the original pier was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022. The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, August 21, at Crescent Beach Family Park, located at 1100 Estero Blvd. near the former pier site. The new pier will extend roughly 1,000 feet into the Gulf and will be about 12 feet wide. According to Lee County, that will make it more than 70% longer and 50% wider than the destroyed pier. Plans for the replacement include reinforced concrete piles, a concrete deck, aluminum railings, an entry gate and three shade structures. The $14.4 million project is being funded by Lee County through FEMA Public Assistance, Tourist Development Taxes and RESTORE Act grants. Construction is expected to be completed in late summer 2027, weather and other unforeseen circumstances permitting. Lee County commissioners, county staff, and other officials are expected to give brief remarks during the groundbreaking ceremony. There will be no onsite event parking. Those attending are encouraged to walk, bike or use LeeTran. The Beach Trolley Route 490 will provide service from the Beach Park & Ride at 11101 Summerlin Square Drive to Crescent Beach Family Park. LeeTran’s regular 75-cent fare will be waived from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the day of the ceremony for those traveling to the event. Attendees are encouraged to wear appropriate outdoor footwear and sun-protective attire. The county will also stream the groundbreaking online for those unable to attend in person. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.