Architects propose changes for new Pier design

ST. PETERSBURG After months of public feedback running the gamut from contempt to acclaim to indifference architects of the city's proposed replacement for the current Pier have unveiled further design changes they hope will win broad approval.

A voluminous document released on the city's website Monday evening gives a detailed description of what can be expected, how the new Pier will be built and promises to deliver the $50million project within budget.

The fine-tuning has wrought a number of changes to the iconic concept known as the Lens submitted by Michael Maltzan Architecture more than a year ago as part of an international design competition to create a new St. Petersburg Pier.

Among the highlights:

A restaurant is being proposed at the Lens, where previously there had been mention only of a gelato stand.

A waterfront restaurant, this one at the landside approach south of Spa Beach, is also being proposed for what will be known as the Hub, an area that will include space for retail.

Shaded areas along the project's two looping bridges will include places to sit, rest and take in the view.

One of the two bridges, referred to as the overwater drive, will accommodate pedestrians, service and emergency vehicles and have two balconies for shade and relaxation and a tram stop adjacent to the new Pier's marina.

The other span, called the overwater bridge, will be for bikes and pedestrians and will offer a marina outlook, described as a shaded promenade with benches for sitting and boat watching.

A floating dock will accommodate only non-motorized watercraft, including kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, standup paddleboards and silent electric vessels. The original concept included motor boats.

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Architects propose changes for new Pier design