CLERMONT, Fla. — The City of Clermont is seeking input from residents on the future of its 8th Street Pier, which has been closed off since Hurricane Ian damaged it.

The revitalization project is a priority for the city and neighboring small businesses, with public input being sought on Wednesday.

As part of Florida's Main Street Program, Downtown Clermont has been undergoing revitalization over the past year.

The area has seen the addition of several new businesses, including The Florida Angler, a fishing shop that opened five years ago.

Jeff Powell, the architect behind Middle Plaza and Clermont 8th Street Docks, said the pier is in bad repair and the city is considering options for its redevelopment, including replacement or enhancement.

"We're looking at what we can do," Powell said. "This project can't happen without the input and support from its residents."

Powell hopes the project will address the current aqua parking issue, as well as highlight Clermont's midpoint location on the Florida Coast-to-Coast trail.

The public meeting on Wednesday night at the Clermont City Center aims to gather input and feedback from residents, with Powell emphasizing the importance of public support for the project.

"It's nice to have an open line of communication in local government to be able to talk with them about big budget items that are going to impact the community," said Ashley Condon, owner of The Florida Angler.

The outcome of Wednesday's meeting will determine the next steps for the redevelopment project.