Exclusive: 9 Features You Didn’t Expect From the New Naples Pier, We’re Especially Excited about #4!
Exclusive: 9 Features You Didn’t Expect From the New Naples Pier, We’re especially excited about #4!
The town is buzzing with the Grand Opening of the new Naples Pier just a few days away. Friday night from 5:30 pm to 7:30 Naples’ residents are invited to join the celebration of our town’s most iconic structure. Governor Rick Scott, and special guest Lavern Gaynor will be in attendance to kick-off the ribbon cutting ceremony at 6pm, For $50 a person, you can be one of the firsts to walk along the newly renovated pier while enjoying beer, wine, softdrinks and hors d’oeuvres.
We recently sat down with KP Pezeshkan, Vice President at Manhattan Construction, who is the Project Director of this renovation, and he let us know about 9 features he is excited about and assures us when we see #4 it will be “jawdropping”.
#1. Almost 10 feet of Ipe Wood was used and will last up to 45 years
Ipe Wood, als
o known as Brazilian Walnut, is a dense wood extremely resilient to splintering, weathering and water / salt exposure making ideal for the planks of the pier. The 3/16 stainless fasteners used to hold them together are marine grade which does not allow erosion in the salty environment. The wood was not only used for the planks but the railing, structures and interior of the restrooms to keep maintenance low and give a sleek aesthetic.
#2. Handicapped Accessible railing
The railing was placed a few inches lower throughout 25% of the walkway allowing for ease of fishing and viewing.
#3. Emergency call boxes and high-grade security system
A new feature is the inclusion of an emergency call box, with safety being a top priority, the new call box is a comforting inclusion, as is the top of the line security system that is viewed by the city’s police
#4. Large restrooms Double in Size!
We are especially happy about this one, not only are the facilities doubled in size, but the walls and ceilings also are made from the Ipe wood giving it a luxe feel. Modernly updated with automatic faucets and stainless Dyson hand dryers will help streamline traffic in and out faster. An interesting feature is the high ceilings with exposed Brazilian Walnut beams.
#5. Updated concession stand
The concession stand has been updated with granite counter tops, new flooring and stainless steel appliances.
#6. Modern Lighting
The new small gold lighting features blend into the railing but will allow patrons to enjoy the Pier longer without hindering the picturesque views.
#7. Additional Staircase on the South Side
An additional staircase creates convenience for two reasons. You no longer have to cross under the Pier for direct beach access but more importantly it will ease the staircase congestion.
#8. New Fire Hose Hookup
Hopefully it will never be needed but its reassuring to know that its now equipped with a fire hose hookup.
#9. NOAA Weather Tracking Device
The weather tracking device, owned and operated by NOAA, keeps track of both air and marine forecasts and can be found near the covered seating area.