The Fort Myers Beach pier, among other landmarks, was destroyed last year by Hurricane Ian. Now, there are plans to rebuild the beloved pier. Digital renderings of a new pier were presented by Allen Shanosky and other dedicated Fort Myers residents during the Wednesday night town council meeting.

The Fort Myers Beach Pier remains closed in February 2026 because it was completely destroyed by Hurricane Ian on September 28, 2022. The storm's massive surge and high winds wiped out the historic structure, which had served as a landmark for decades. As of early 2026, the project is in the critical design and permitting phase. While early projections suggested a 2028 reopening, local officials have successfully fast-tracked the timeline. Construction is anticipated to officially break ground in late 2026, with a projected completion date set for August 2027. The new pier is planned to be significantly more resilient, measuring 1,000 feet long and 12 feet wide—roughly 70% longer and 50% wider than the original—designed to better withstand future storm events while restoring the coastal charm that residents and tourists have missed for nearly four years.