A proposal from Rogers Partners Architects + Urban Designers, ASD and KSLA has won the competition to redesign St. Petersburg Pier in Florida, US.

The design, called ‘The Pier Park’, was ranked first by the Pier Selection Committee based on state mandated criteria such as the design itself, public input, relevant experience, background and qualifications of the design teams and technical review of the concepts.

Selecting from three finalists, the committee ranked St. Pete Design Group’s proposal second, while Alfonso Architects’ design came third.

Rogers Partners’ design is intended to be a flexible-use hub of activity along the entire 1,380ft (420.6m) length of the pier, so creating a “true bay-side city experience”.

A collection of smaller destinations for tourists and the local community is envisaged rather than there being a single destination at the pier head. These would include multi-level observation platforms, a boat house and kayak slip, dining options and event space.

“The committee has chosen a preeminent architect with their associated team who will advance the detail of their iconic concept as we move closer to construction and the symbol of St. Petersburg's next chapter. With this selection we are taking a bold step towards our city's bright future,” said Mike Connors, public works administrator for the city and chairman of the selection committee.

The committee will now present the rankings to the St. Petersburg City Council for approval. If the go-ahead is given, city staff will begin negotiations with the winning team.

Three architectural practices compete for new pier commission in St. Petersburg, Florida