After nearly two years of public input and debate on the future of the Pier, the elected officials of the City have agreed to solicit the talents and vision of the finest design firms throughout the world for the design and replacement of the Pier. While the decision to replace the current Pier structure has been hotly debated, the opportunity to create a new identity and iconic landmark for the next generation sets this Pier replacement project apart from those that preceded it.
Every Pier replacement or enhancement over the last 90 years has been developed within certain fixed constraints. These include the distance and location over water, vehicular access and support systems and the rigid boundaries first established by the original railroad trestle. Where the past Pier projects in St. Petersburg have all followed a given framework; building new structures on an old pier, the ability to readdress and validate the planning parameters has resulted in an opportunity for altering the context.
The Pier and the City of St. Petersburg have been inextricably connected throughout its history, with a strong sense of image, identity and civic pride. The challenge of this competition is to replace the most visible landmark in the history of the City, redefine the essential components and create an integrated, long-lasting destination.
To accomplish the vision for the Pier, the Teams are tasked with creating design concepts that address the following goals:
- Create a new icon for St. Petersburg as a destination for both city residents and visitors,
- Honor the history and relevance of the Pier to St. Petersburg,
- Provide flexibility of future uses,
- Provide for cost effective operational sustainability,
- Integrate the community vision for the Pier into the fabric of the city's waterfront park system.
- Develop pedestrian and vehicular transportation methodologies that are mutually compatible.
- Invigorate the upland areas and Spa Beach as part of a phased development approach.
- Establish an "over the water" experience that includes passive and active opportunities such as boat access, fishing, and community gathering.
- Create a landmark that is as symbolically inviting to visitors when viewed from the water as it is from the land.