- February 16, 2026
Construction of the new Flagler Beach Pier remains on schedule as city leaders continue refining decisions on shade structures, benches and other amenities that will shape the final look of the landmark.
During a recent City Commission meeting, Project Manager Gabe Perdomo of Moffatt and Nichol presented an update on pier furniture and features, outlining what has already been included in construction documents and where final direction from commissioners is still needed.
“The design shows three that are on the pier,” Perdomo said of the proposed tension shade structures planned for the outer half of the pier. Each structure would be approximately 23 feet wide and 40 feet long and built with marine grade shade fabric, stainless steel cables and framing designed to meet the same 135 mile per hour wind load standards as the pier itself.
However, not all commissioners are sold on the scale of the structures.
Commissioner Eric Cooley questioned whether the large shade features were necessary, noting that many Florida piers operate without prominent fabric canopies.
“I find them to be odd,” Cooley said, adding that most piers he has visited have either no shade structures or much smaller, more modest options.
He also raised concerns about long term maintenance and storm preparation, suggesting the city consider reducing the size or number of shade structures if they move forward with them.
In addition to shade structures, the design includes 17 benches with side tables placed along the outer half of the pier and beneath shaded areas. Materials under consideration include aluminum or wood frames with recycled planks or powder coated finishes, with final selections still to be confirmed.
Three fish cleaning stations are also part of the plan, positioned along the south side of the pier. Perdomo described them as traditional marina style tables constructed of marine grade aluminum with high density polymer cutting surfaces and stainless steel fasteners to withstand the saltwater environment.
Trash receptacles sparked additional discussion. Perdomo noted that permanent trash cans were not included in the contractor’s bid and would need to be selected separately by the city. Cooley recommended movable “tippy carts” rather than stationary cans to allow for easier storm preparation and cleanup, particularly during hurricane season.
City officials also provided a construction update.
City Manager Dale Martin said the project remains within its expected timeline.
“Progress is going well. We’re well within the anticipated window of where we should be,” Martin said.
One of the most visible recent milestones has been the installation of concrete test piles.
“The most significant recent development has been the driving of the concrete test piles,” Martin said, noting residents and visitors have likely noticed the work.
City officials also met with state and FEMA representatives to review the project’s status.
“They, too, are satisfied with the progress and excited to see the project coming out of the ground and look forward to a rapid completion,” Martin said.
The new pier is expected to be completed in approximately one year.
As construction advances, commissioners are balancing aesthetic enhancements with long term durability and maintenance concerns. Final decisions on shade structures, seating and other amenities will help define the experience of the rebuilt pier — a structure designed to be wider, longer and more resilient than its predecessor while continuing to serve as one of Flagler Beach’s most iconic gathering places.
