Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and the City of Anna Maria have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to pursue the construction of a marine science education and public outreach center at the City of Anna Maria Pier. The pier was reconstructed following Hurricane Irma in 2017; the goal of the center is to inspire visitors and residents alike to connect to the importance of the local marine ecosystem. The center has been unanimously approved by the Anna Maria city commission and the MOU was signed by Mayor Dan Murphy and Mote president and CEO Dr. Michael Crosby. It will be constructed in the 1,800 square feet of empty space currently available at the pier; physical plans fort he space include several live animal exhibits as well as several interactive exhibits. Mote’s education team will also provide regular programming for members of the public that will help them better understand and appreciate the area’s native flora and fauna and learn conservation-minded fishing practices. Following the acquisition of funding by the City of Anna Maria, the construction will take approximately six months.