ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fla. (WWSB) – A fundraising effort to rebuild the Rod and Reel Pier on Anna Maria Island has raised more than $104,000 after the landmark was destroyed by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
A GoFundMe page organized by owner Oliver Lemke shows $104,431 raised toward a $300,000 goal. Nearly 1,000 donations have been made.
The pier had been part of Anna Maria Island for more than 75 years. It was known for fresh seafood, Gulf views, fishing and its “Old Florida” feel.
Lemke said on the fundraising page that Hurricane Helene damaged the pier before Hurricane Milton “finished what Helene had started.” He said there is no insurance coverage or major investor backing the rebuild…