A significant decision emerged from the Bradenton City Council meeting on July 23, 2025, as council members approved the renaming of the city day dock to the Bradenton Riverwalk Pier. This change, proposed by the county's Tourist Development Council, aims to enhance signage and visibility for the pier, which is expected to attract more visitors and promote local tourism.

The council discussed the importance of the pier in relation to the growing success of water ferries in the area, highlighting that the new name would help put Bradenton on the map for visitors arriving from Sarasota. Council members expressed enthusiasm about the potential for increased recognition and tourism, with one member noting, "It really puts our name into it."

The project will be funded entirely by the county, alleviating any financial burden on the city. The council unanimously voted in favor of the motion, signaling strong support for the initiative. As the city continues to recover from recent hurricanes, this renaming is seen as a step towards revitalizing the waterfront and enhancing the community's appeal.

In addition to the pier discussion, the council also addressed the upcoming presentation by the county regarding their software system, scheduled for July 31. Council members emphasized the importance of transparency and public observation during this meeting, ensuring that any discussions remain open to the public.

Overall, the renaming of the Bradenton Riverwalk Pier marks a strategic move to boost local tourism and community pride, with the council eager to see the positive impacts unfold.