Beachgoers at Fort Myers Beach are treating a damaged pier like a diving board, prompting safety concerns from county leaders. The Fort Myers Beach Pier has been off-limits since Hurricane Ian, but some visitors are ignoring warnings to jump into debris-filled waters.

James Moroz, a frequent beach visitor, expressed his concerns about the dangerous activity.

“In my opinion, eventually something’s going to happen,” said Moroz.

Since 2022, there have been multiple reports of people jumping off the pier despite caution tape and warning signs. Moroz, who often visits the beach with his daughters, worries about the safety of other people’s children.

“I think four or five young men, maybe like, 15 or 16, or something like that, standing on the far end where the birds are jumping off. And, you know, the two questions came to mind is, how did they get up there? And why are they doing this? Like I said, I’m up for a challenge and having fun, but what are you jumping into with all the debris?” said Moroz.

Olivia and Maddie, other beach visitors, also shared their concerns.

“I thought it was unsafe because it was almost right after it was, like, into the debris of the water,” they said.

While some, like Barry, have not witnessed the jumping firsthand, others insist on the need for precautions to prevent injuries.

“I’ve never seen anybody playing on the pillars or anything else. I haven’t seen anything,” said Barry.

Two young girls also voiced their thoughts on the matter.

“It’s a safety hazard. A lot of people can get hurt. I feel like it’s closed off for a reason, and if people are jumping into the water, it could really, like harm them,” they said.

Moroz observed that the jumpers returned to shore unharmed but emphasized the unsustainable nature of the activity.

“They jumped down after a while, swam back to shore without being injured. But it’s not something that’s sustainable,” said Moroz.

Lee County commissioners have written to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, urging a swift review of the pier to expedite repair work and mitigate future safety risks.

Our team has reached out for updates on the pier’s review progress. We will provide more information as it becomes available.