Contact:  Jason Bartolone, Communications Specialist   941-928-3988; jason.bartolone@sarasotaFL.gov

Sarasota, FL:  The Tony Saprito Fishing Pier is temporarily closed to the public after it sustained damage from wave action Friday.

A wooden section of the pier was wave-lifted out of its landing recess and suffered damage Friday morning. Staff from the City’s Public Works and Parks and Recreation departments have inspected the damaged section and determined it presents a safety hazard. The pier will be closed indefinitely until repairs can be made.

The pier, located adjacent to the John Ringling Causeway Bridge, underwent a comprehensive rehabilitation project that was completed earlier this year and included the installation of a new concrete top deck and retrofitting of concrete pilings, caps and light poles. Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant railings also were installed, plus six benches and three shade structures to provide relief from the intense Florida sun. 

For more information, including the location of other fishing piers at City parks, visit letsplaysarasota.com. 

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About the City of Sarasota:  Distinguished by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top 10 Best Places to Live in the U.S., the City of Sarasota is a diverse community located on Florida’s Suncoast with 56,000 year-round residents, several internationally recognized cultural arts venues, stunning sunsets along Lido Beach and Major League spring training baseball with the Baltimore Orioles.  Learn more about us at www.SarasotaFL.Gov