The long-awaited debut of the new St. Pete Pier and Pier Approach has a grand opening date. City officials announced that the park and pier will open to the public on July 6. The new pier will be an entire district that will be a 26-acre waterfront area that is the ultimate place to stroll, bike, shop, dine, drink, swim, and take in a concert. Due to COVID-19, no organized mass gathering will coincide with the opening, but residents and visitors will be welcome. The Bay News 9 reports that Mayor Rick Kriseman says, “It’s been a long and winding road, but we’ve arrived at our destination: A dynamic, 26-acre waterfront playground that will serve residents and visitors for generations to come. It’s time for everyone to experience all the Pier District and St. Pete Pier has to offer.”