Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has granted Naples its Christmas wish: funding to rebuild the Naples Pier.
Naples city officials announced on Friday, Dec. 12, that FEMA has officially advanced the project through the Department of Homeland Security, meaning federal review is completed. The FEMA Grants Portal now says the funds have been approved and obligated to the State of Florida as the grant recipient.
“This is truly a wonderful Christmas gift for our residents and for everyone who treasures the Naples Pier,” Mayor Teresa Heitmann said in a press release. “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.”
Beloved Naples pier damaged by Hurricane Ian
The Naples Pier has been closed to the public since Hurricane Ian wiped out the majority of the structure in 2022. Ian caused more than 30 pilings to collapse. About half of the pier is missing, and all but 100 feet of it became unsafe and unusable…