Beer Can Island's Owners Embark on Rebuilding Mission Amidst Party Pirate Damage

Co-owners of Beer Can Island, a popular party spot in Tampa Bay, Florida, are striving to restore and sell the island after it was vandalized and ransacked by party-goers during its closure.

Pine Key Island, fondly known as Beer Can Island to Tampa Bay locals, has been a popular party destination for decades. However, after the closure of the island six months ago, it became a haven for trespassers and vandals, leaving behind rampant property damage and stolen equipment.

Co-owners Cole Weaver, Russell Loomis, James West, and John Anthony Gadd purchased the island in 2017 for a mere $64,000. Little did they know that this idyllic spot would soon become a hub for trespassers and vandals.

"We had no idea that it was such a popular boating and party destination," lamented Loomis. "Once we bought it, we slowly learned that it would be a crazy ride."

The owners' plans to upgrade the island with amenities like toilets, security, and food service faced backlash from locals accustomed to unfettered access. Now, they are seeking to involve the community by offering 1,500 shares at $1,000 each. The funds raised will cover expenses for zoning, legal fees, and the reconstruction of the tiki bar.

The island's zoning status, or lack thereof, has created hurdles for the owners. "We're having to jump through a lot of hoops to get the property zoned," said Loomis. "We're working on getting the community involved so they can purchase shares."

Despite the challenges, Weaver and his co-owners remain determined to restore the island to its former glory. "Getting all of this back into place and being able to make it an enjoyable destination for the Tampa Bay would be kind of what we're shooting for right now," said Weaver.

The owners are confident in their ability to rebuild Beer Can Island, having faced similar challenges in the past. They are committed to cleaning up the island, beautifying it, and restoring the tiki hut.

The process of rebuilding Beer Can Island is sure to be a long and arduous one, but the owners are determined to persevere. They are confident that with the support of the community, they can restore this popular party spot to its former glory.

* Beer Can Island is a nine-acre manmade island located between MacDill Air Force Base and Apollo Beach.

* The island has been a party spot since the 1940s.

* The co-owners plan to sell the island for $14.2 million.