Historic Salem Willows Fishing Pier Reopens After $5 Million Rebuild

SALEM, MA — The ribbon was cut on the rebuilt Salem Willows Fishing Pier after a $5 million rebuild on Monday.

The state and local collaboration is designed to enhance public access for thousands of visitors each year.

"It's an honor to welcome residents and visitors back to the Salem Willows Fishing Pier," Lt. Gov. and former Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll said at the event. "This pier is more than just a place to fish — it is a place where families have gathered for generations to connect with nature, share traditions, and make life-long memories.

"In the heart of Salem, this project showcases what we can accomplish when we come together to create space for community and connection with nature in our cities. With the revitalization of Salem Willows, we are putting Salem on the map as a destination for outdoor recreation and improving the quality of life for all our North Shore residents."

The pier was constructed in 1894 and stood for more than a century before it was demolished because of deterioration and storm damage. A project to rebuild the pier was launched in 2020 and was completed in November.

The new pier extends more than 300 feet into Salem Sound and features a T-shaped end for maximum access.

The new pier is fully ADA compliant for sightseers and fishermen alike.

"Projects like this are important for creating an accessible and inclusive waterfront for everyone," Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper said. "By investing in the Salem Willows Fishing Pier, we are opening up more ways for people to connect with nature and each other. This pier is a great example of what can be achieved through collaboration, reflecting the hard work of all the individuals and organizations who made this vision a reality.

"The pier will serve as a lasting resource for generations to come."

Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo called the pier "a special space in Salem and central in the memories of so many who grew up here and who are part of our community today."

The city contributed over half of the funding for the project, including the full cost of demolishing the old pier. Nearly $2 million came from the sale of saltwater fishing licenses, through DMF's Saltwater Recreational Fishing Fund, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service's Sport Fish Restoration Program.

The Seaport Economic Council also contributed $700,000 to support the project.

"I am thrilled at the return of the Salem Willows Fishing Pier, a resource that enhances access to recreational fishing and to our beautiful coastline here in Salem," State Sen. Joan Lovely (D-Salem) said. "Thank you to the Department of Fish and Game for their commitment to this project and to ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy this pier for years to come."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)