Florida will soon rebuild the Sunshine Elevated Fishing Pier, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Thursday.
During a press conference in Bradenton — where DeSantis signed two environmental bills — the governor also announced a project to build a new fishing pier on the south side of the Sunshine Skyway. The existing dock on the Pinellas County side will also be renovated as part of the project.
After a notorious shipwreck in 1980 that killed 35 people, the Sunshine Viaduct was replaced and both ends of the old bridge were repurposed as two fishing piers in Tampa Bay.
“While fishing is a major attraction, the pier is also a popular recreational spot for photography, kite flying, kayaking and enjoying the sights and sounds of Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast,” DeSantis said.
About 0.6 miles of Manatee County’s 2-mile southern fishing pier was closed in October due to damage from Hurricane Milton, according to DeSantis. At the time, the Florida Department of Transportation pointed out problems discovered during structural inspections.
Governor Ron DeSantis announced updates to Florida’s Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier. A new marina will be built on the Manatee County side, and the existing Pinellas County side will be improved and expanded.
(Courtesy/Office of Governor Ron DeSantis)
The state will build a new pier on the south side adjacent to the existing pier, he said. DeSantis said that at the same time, Pinellas County’s North Pier will be rehabilitated, which will extend the pier’s life by 20 years.
“I plan to complete this project as quickly as possible so people can once again enjoy this great recreational attraction,” he said.
DeSantis did not say when the project is expected to be completed.
A news release from the governor’s office said early construction will include improvements to parking lots and widening of sidewalks along the seawall.
“Construction of the temporary fishing pier is being accelerated to help increase the fishing opportunity area and offset uninterrupted fishing opportunities during construction,” the release said. “Once completed, the project will restore one of Florida’s most iconic recreational destinations for fishing, sightseeing and outdoor activities.”
Governor Ron DeSantis announced updates to Florida’s Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier. A new marina will be built on the Manatee County side, and the existing Pinellas County side will be improved and expanded.
(Courtesy/Office of Governor Ron DeSantis)
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 302 into law on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at Pier 22 in Bradenton. He also announced the state’s plans to build a new Skyway Fishing Pier in Manatee County.
(Tiffany Tompkins/ttompkins@bradenton.com)
