Construction costs for the New St. Pete Pier continue to skyrocket before work even begins, and the St. Pete City Council is meeting Thursday morning to discuss yet another redesign.
Mayor Rick Kriseman announced yesterday he wants to use money that was previously set aside for the failed transportation project Greenlight Pinellas and add it to the new pier project to make upgrades to transform the pier “from great to being a world-class family friendly destination.”
Kriseman’s proposal would add $14 million to an already $66 million project budget, totaling $80 million.
The additions appear to include more green spaces and enhancing play areas for families, like an improved splash pad.
The City Council is scheduled to meet at 8 a.m. to talk with architects and debate whether the new upgrade proposals are worth the extra money.
Construction on the new pier was originally scheduled to begin in March of 2017.
