FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission announced the iconic Folly Beach Fishing Pier will be replaced with a new structure after 24 years.

The 1045-foot long, 25-foot wide pier opened in 1995, and officials say it was reached the end of its useful life.

Officials say the pier is currently safe for visitors, but deterioration in the wood piles has been worsened by marine boring worms, and after many attempts, they say the deterioration cannot be stopped.

The project is currently in the design phase. Officials say consultants Wantman Group Inc. were selected to lead the project because of, “extensive experience in ocean fishing pier design and construction.”

“The new pier will still have all of the elements visitors love about the existing pier, including fishing stations, places to watch the sunset and the beloved Moonlight Mixer dance series.”

The walkway will be closed for 18 to 22 months while it is under construction. After the walkway is complete, an access ramp to the pier will be built to the side. The rectangular deck and gift shop will also be replaced, and that is expected to take about 4 months.

Pier 101 restaurant, the Folly Pier gift shop, and restroom facilities are expected to remain open during all phases of construction.

However, officials say access around the pier will be restricted during construction, and say about a third of the pier’s parking lot may be impacted.

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