Newport News to Reopen Shuttered Fishing Piers

City plans to restore access to popular waterfront attractions by 2027 and 2028.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 6:47am

An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph depicting the silhouettes of people fishing on a wooden pier, with the water and sky blurred into soft, warm pools of light and color, conveying a nostalgic, dreamlike atmosphere.The restoration of Newport News' cherished fishing piers will soon revive a beloved local pastime along the city's picturesque waterfront.Newport News Today

The city of Newport News, Virginia has announced plans to reopen two fishing piers that were previously closed due to damage and disrepair. The piers, which have been off-limits to the public for several years, are expected to welcome anglers and beachgoers once again by 2027 and 2028 following extensive renovations.

Why it matters

The fishing piers are important recreational assets for the Newport News community, providing access to the waterfront and opportunities for leisure activities like fishing. Their closure has been a disappointment for local residents, so their planned reopening is seen as a positive development that will restore an amenity many have missed.

The details

According to city officials, the piers fell into disrepair over time due to wear, tear, and damage from storms. Significant investments will be required to fully restore the structures and bring them up to safety standards before they can reopen to the public. The city is currently in the planning stages and securing funding for the renovation projects.

  • The first pier is slated to reopen in 2027.
  • The second pier is expected to reopen in 2028.

The players

Newport News

The city government of Newport News, Virginia, which oversees the fishing piers and is responsible for their restoration and reopening.

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What’s next

City officials will continue to work on securing funding and finalizing renovation plans for the two fishing piers, with the goal of reopening them to the public within the next 5-6 years.

The takeaway

The planned reopening of Newport News' shuttered fishing piers represents a positive development for the community, restoring an important recreational amenity and waterfront access that residents have been without for several years.