The pier at Gulf State Park is now open after a $13.6 million renovation project that started in November.
A 200-foot section of the pier was destroyed by Hurricane Sally in 2020, right after an extensive renovation, according to the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Bids to repair the damage were higher than expected and there was an extensive process to get federal permits for the renovations, the department said.
‘Rite of passage’
“Visiting the Gulf State Park Pier is almost a rite of passage for anyone who visits Alabama’s beautiful Gulf Coast beaches,” Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the conservation department, said in a written statement.
“We are thrilled to have the pier open to the public again. It’s been a long journey to get to this point, and we appreciate the support and patience given to us as the renovation work took place. It’s safe to say the pier is better than it’s ever been.”
The department previously said restoring the pier would require removing the concrete pilings that collapsed and are underwater. Some of the standing pilings will have to be repaired by divers. Lighting equipment for the entire pier also had to be replaced.
The department said most of the park’s amenities re-opened this week, including a gift shop, restaurant and beach access.
The pier’s observation deck on the south end isn’t yet open, pending a new elevator to make it compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
There are fees to access the pier. An adult sightseeing pass is $2 and an adult fishing pass is $9. Parking is $10.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written and originally published by Alabama Daily News. It is reprinted with permission.
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