Naples Pier Rebuild: Final Federal Funding Remains the Last Hurdle

The City of Naples has achieved a major milestone in the long-awaited reconstruction of its iconic pier, which was devastated by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. The city has successfully navigated the complex environmental and federal regulatory processes, culminating in the receipt of the final permit approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) on October 10, 2025. This approval came after the project had been sent to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for a mandatory review regarding its impact on endangered species, which was the final federal review required before the USACE could issue the permit. Additionally, the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) issued its final order authorizing the pier construction in late 2024.

However, the $26 million project cannot begin construction, estimated to take 18 months, until the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) obligates its portion of the funding. The city is currently awaiting FEMA’s final financial sign-off for more than $11 million in disaster aid. As of November 2025, city officials are maintaining optimism that this final approval will be secured in time to commence construction in January. The construction contract, valued at $23.5 million, was officially awarded to Shoreline Foundation Inc. in October 2024.

The reconstruction effort is a multi-layered financial undertaking. The total project cost is around $26 million, which is being covered by a mix of local, state, and federal contributions. FEMA is expected to provide approximately $14 million in funding, and the state has committed an additional $5 million through a grant secured by former Senate President Kathleen Passidomo. The Collier County Tourist Development Council has contributed $2.2 million. To expedite the process and initiate work, the Naples City Council issued $11 million in bonds, intending to use the federal and state funds as reimbursement once obligated. The community has also provided significant support, raising over $1.4 million in public donations.

The process of securing the final FEMA obligation has been historically slow, with the project being subject to internal review since February 2025. The delays have been attributed, in part, to staff changes and reorganizations within FEMA itself, forcing the city to restart with new reviewers multiple times.

Frustration with the pace of federal approval led city officials to pursue multiple avenues for assistance, including contacting elected officials like Senator Rick Scott, Governor Ron DeSantis, and Representative Byron Donalds. Notably, the city reached out to a major financial supporter of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Following this, the pier project was reportedly put on an expedited path within FEMA, with one agency representative noting the instruction to "pushing project immediately". The city confirmed that reaching out to Secretary Noem was part of their broader, ongoing effort to involve all partners essential to the project's completion. Final obligation requires the Secretary's personal sign-off on projects exceeding a $100,000 threshold.

The plans for the rebuilt pier are designed to maintain its historic character while significantly enhancing its structural resilience. The new design will utilize concrete pilings, beams, and bents, which are engineered to better withstand severe weather events. Structural vulnerability to storm surges is being reduced by elevating the pier by at least three feet.

While incorporating modern engineering, the pier will retain its familiar appearance, including the iconic Polynesian roof lines at the far end and midpoint. Environmentally conscious decisions have also been integrated into the plans, such as reducing the overall number of pilings and increasing the spacing between them to minimize environmental disruption.

The new design also features enhanced amenities, including strategically placed bump-outs for benches that will provide visitors with unobstructed views of the Gulf. This comprehensive design, approved by the City Council, aims to deliver a modern, resilient structure that honors the pier's historical significance and role as a beloved community landmark, which attracts over one million visitors annually. Despite the delays, the city remains focused on achieving its projected start date and delivering the 18-month construction project to the community.