More money needed for St. Pete Pier

ST. PETERSBURG - Mayor Bill Foster is turning to Congress for money to replace the St. Pete Pier.

The city has $50 million to work with, but the costs of concepts for a new Pier identified by a task force range from $60 to $90 million.

"It's going to be hard without a significant commitment by the federal government to do anything except a greatly scaled-down pier," Foster said.

The mayor says he has requested two $20 million congressional "earmarks" through Congresswoman Kathy Castor. The justification is "Economic impact."

"I mean impact to the region, impact to a tourist destination, job creation," Foster said.

Foster also says a plan to replace the Pier will be in place before the end of this year. The 1,100 foot long bridge leading out to the pier head is 84 years old, and its deterioration is constantly monitored.

"As far as safety concerns, we have none," says the city's Mike Conners. "Due to the on-going inspection of the structure and performing maintenance on as as-needed basis."

But Conners admits the end is approaching. "I doubt very seriously five years from now I could tell you that the pedestrian and motorists can safely utilize that structure."