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Developers seek redesign approval for Newport Pier restaurant; commission OKs cantilever walkway application
Summary
Owners of the Newport Hotel and Pier presented a multi‑phase renovation of the pier’s restaurant space and a shading/circulation concept. The commission signaled support for staff to apply to the state for a cantilevered pedestrian walkway and asked architects to refine the shading design to preserve ocean views.
Eddie Horowitz, representing Pier Restaurant Associates (the hotel operator), and architect Malcolm Berg of EOA presented a multi‑phase renovation concept for the Newport pier restaurant and adjacent pier deck.
Horowitz described the pier as a longtime community landmark and said the hotel’s renovation (the project rebrands the property as “the Sunny”) includes a long‑term vision for the pier as an extension of the hotel’s public amenity. He said the team had identified a culinary operator that the hotel believes will create an ‘‘elevated Florida fish shack’’ concept serving residents and guests.
Malcolm Berg walked commissioners through phased plans: a Phase 1 redesign of the restaurant footprint to open dining to ocean views, relocation of restrooms and back‑of‑house toward the entry, and façade improvements. Phase 2 includes a proposed cantilevered pedestrian walkway on the south side of the pier to separate fishermen and through‑traffic from restaurant diners; later phases would address broader site improvements, shading devices and pier park elements.
Commissioners and staff focused questions on the proposed sculptural shading device: commissioners asked for shading studies and for adjustments that preserve ocean views, particularly at key sightlines. Berg said the proposed shading device emanates from the south side and can be designed with variable porosity so that it casts usable shade without permanently blocking views. Several commissioners suggested testing lower, more horizontal elements or greater porosity at eye level rather than solid vertical screens.
City staff reported the city has budgeted funds for pier improvements in the current fiscal year and requested direction on filing a state application for a cantilever walkway. The commission gave consensus to pursue the state application with the understanding that the city would fund the application and eventual work; staff said the expense would come from the city’s budget. City staff also noted a separate resolution would be on the regular meeting agenda for the redesign approval of the restaurant space.
Ending: Commissioners asked the design team to revise the shading details to increase visual openness and to work with staff on permitting and a state application for the cantilever walkway. Staff will bring a formal redesign resolution for the restaurant to the commission for action at the regular meeting.
