Naples Pier rebuild advances as FEMA obligates funds

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has officially obligated more than $11.4 million in funds necessary to rebuild the iconic Naples Pier, marking a major milestone in the city’s hurricane recovery efforts. 

FEMA notified members of Florida’s Congressional Delegation on Dec. 12 that it advanced the project through the Department of Homeland Security, completing federal review; FEMA notified the city in September that it would get $11.4 million for the $12,667,938 demolition and rebuild. The entire project, including design and engineering, is estimated to cost $26 million. 

City officials say they remain on track to issue a Notice to Proceed to the pier contractor, Shoreline Foundation Inc. on Jan. 5. The Broward County-based company was awarded the $23.45 million construction contract, with a $1.17 million contingency allowance in case of unforeseen problems. 

“This is truly a wonderful Christmas gift for our residents and for everyone who treasures the Naples Pier,” said Mayor Teresa Heitmann. “The obligation of these funds brings us one step closer to restoring a landmark that reflects the heart of our city. We are grateful for the dedicated work of our partners and staff who have moved this project forward.” 

Naples Pier, located at the west end of 12th Avenue South, suffered catastrophic damage during Hurricane Ian on Sept. 28, 2022, prompting a design and engineering for a stronger, higher, more resilient $26.3 million pier. It will be the seventh resurrection of the 137-year-old pier. Only 100 feet stood after it collapsed into the Gulf; it reopened in November 2022.  

Naples officials already received permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and expect demolition to take nine months, followed by 1½ years of construction. 

City officials credited the mayor; city council; Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, the former senate president; Rep. Byron Donalds; Sen. Rick Scott; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gen. William H. “Butch” Graham Jr.; FEMA leadership; and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, “whose coordination and support were instrumental throughout the federal review process.” 

Funding will come from about $12.66 million in federal money, including the $11,401,144.20 FEMA grant, state grants, $11 million in bonds, $2 million in county tourist-development taxes, Naples’ beach fund and public donations, including from the Collier Community Foundation. For updates and project information, visit naplesgov.com/PierRebuild 

To donate to the project, click here.