OLDSMAR, Fla. — A popular pier in Oldsmar is expected to fully reopen in two weeks after suffering damage from the 2024 hurricane season.
The pier at R.E. Olds Park is finally getting necessary repairs. The end of the pier has been closed for about a year and a half.
What You Need To Know
The pier at R.E. Olds Park is expected to fully reopen in two weeks
The end of the pier suffered damage from hurricanes Helene and Milton
New pilings were installed, and crews are now laying a new frame and decking
Repairs cost $125,000, according to the city
The park is cherished by many Oldsmar residents and their pets.
“We’re here every day, every morning training and playing and enjoying the park,” said resident Maxine Drake.
Maxine Drake and her dog Xena go to the park at least twice a day. Xena gets agility training on the field and Drake gets to see the stunning views from the 400-foot pier.
“It’s just kind of beautiful, a great way to start your day, walk out to the end of the pier and enjoy the beautiful sunrise,” Drake said.
After hurricanes Helene and Milton, the pier had to be closed for an engineer inspection. The first 80% reopened in July 2025, but the final stretch remained closed because of damage to the pilings and deck.
“It really impacted us here, it’s the main attraction,” she said.
About a week and a half ago construction finally started on the end of the pier. The director of Oldsmar Parks and Recreation Chip Potts said it’s a $125,000 project.
“What was damaged before is being replaced as was,” Potts said.
Potts said crews have already installed new pilings. They are now laying the frame and a new deck. Once that’s done, they will put the new handrails in.
“The community here values the water views and the access to the pier for fishing; so, it’s a destination for our community to come out and watch a sunset, be with their family, do some fishing, or just enjoy the water views,” Potts said.
As construction continues, Potts said they are expecting the pier to fully reopen in two weeks.
“Everything takes time, we’ve been really patient, we’re just happy it’s getting done,” Drake said.
It won’t be long before the entire pier is full of life once again.
Potts anticipates the pier to be done in time for the iconic Oldsmar Days and Nights event.
The celebration starts on April 10 and runs throughout the weekend.
The festival honors the spirit of “classic Florida” and celebrates the town’s unique heritage.