Blind Tiger to restore Katrina-ravaged pier for public use

The Blind Tiger, an east Biloxi waterfront restaurant that opened on the west side of the Harrah’s Great Lawn months ago, is restoring a Katrina-ravaged pier at Oak Street, and, word is, it may be ready for boaters in a matter of weeks.

“We opened in mid-February,” says the Blind Tiger’s Thomas Genin, “and, conservatively, we’ve had people all day every day say, ‘Y’all should rebuild that pier,’ and we’re excited to spend the money to do it. It’s restoring a public pier, and it allows people to pull up in their small power boats, jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, and pontoon boats.

“Just last week, we had six boats tied up to the bones of the old pier,” Genin declared, “and they walked through the water and sand because they wanted to come here by water. We have a group of ladies from Ocean Springs who come over twice a week and have drinks on the deck. Now, they’ll be able to paddleboard from here.”

The restoration of the 207-foot pier, which is expected to cost about $30,000, was issued a permit by the city this week, and work is expected to begin today. On Tuesday, Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich is asking the City Council to formally accept the donation of labor and materials.

“This is great news,” Gilich said. “This public-private partnership means amenities that will grow our tourism industry. This is exactly what we envision with the waterfront improvements we want to make all along the Biloxi peninsula.”

Genin agreed.

“It’s been unbelievable since we opened,” he said. “It’s great. We’re looking to begin doing some bands and concerts. This weekend, on Saturday afternoon, we have the Saints Hall of Fame players, and there’s the billfish tournament going on. It’s all good stuff, and we’re very glad to be in Biloxi.”
See photos and paperwork on the project
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