See-Through Deck, Fishing Amenities And More Coming To New $19.4M Steeplechase Pier In Coney Island

After Superstorm Sandy dealt destruction to Coney Island’s Steeplechase Pier, the New York City Park’s Department is promising a brand new pier with a slew of new amenities, including a see-through observation deck so visitors can gawk at the waters below them.

Local photographer Brian Hoo sent along the accompanying images taken over the weekend, showing contractors hard at work on the pier. The spurred us to ask Parks for a status update.

According to Parks spokesperson Meghan Lalor, the $19.4 million project is on schedule to be completed by July 4 – just in time for visitors to watch the fireworks.

But they’re not just rebuilding it back to its preexisting condition – they’re making a bevy of improvements.

“The pier will be surfaced with recycled plastic lumber that has the look and feel of wood while still providing durability and longevity.  The design of the deck allows beachgoers to see through the deck to the water below,” Lalor wrote to Sheepshead Bites. “New seating and railings will be constructed with wood salvaged from the existing pier. Other amenities include shade structures, lighting, bait cutting stations, and an observation platform.”

Work on the 1,000-foot pier began in March, but suffered a setback when one of the barges and a crane involved in the repairs sank into the water in April .