The reconstruction of the iconic Naples Pier, in Florida, USA, is underway with pile testing and installation being carried out by primary contractor Shoreline Foundation, more than three years after Hurricane Ian ripped through the historic structure.
More than 30 of the pier's pilings were destroyed, and a significant section of the pier was lost to the Gulf of Mexico (America). Much of the pier was unusable.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) authorised construction with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarding a US$11 million grant towards rebuilding the popular attraction. Shoreline Foundation, a West Park-based deep foundation specialist, won the $23.5 million rebuild contract in 2024.
A January 2026 groundbreaking ceremony marked the official start of the reconstruction work.
Shoreline Foundation says the redesigned pier prioritises strength and resilience, "using updated engineering standards intended to better withstand future storms and changing coastal conditions."
The new pilings have an18in diameter, 4in larger than the ones they will replace. They are also have an increased height of about 3ft.
FEMA said in December 2025 that the "no action alternative" would adversely impact the community as the remnants of the damaged pier would be left to continue deteriorating, potentially posing physical hazards to humans, wildlife, and the greater coastal environment.
"Not rebuilding the iconic Naples Pier may reduce commerce from tourism in a desirable destination for visitors to the City of Naples and may deprive beach goers of recreational opportunities provided by the pier. Additionally, the no action alternative would ultimately remove a historically iconic characteristic of Naples Beach and the City of Naples," stated FEMA in a public disclosure document.
The Naples Pier was originally built in 1888. Since then, it has been rebuilt more after hurricanes in 1910, 1926, 1944, and 1960. In 2015 the it was reconstructed, and then again after Hurricane Irma damaged the structure, in 2017.
The new pier is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete.
