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HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem #51 - Discussion ItemCITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA INTER -OFFICE MEMORANDUM TO: The Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Commission ;V os A._Gimenez FROM: City Manager DECr r DATE: C - LL'vli n�7 SUBJECT: Status Report on Grove Business District Infrastructure Improvements Item #47 on 12/14100 Commission Agenda REFERENCES: ENCLOSURES: As a result of the appearance before the Commission by Ms. Silvia M. Cejas and Ms. Elena Carpenter on September 28, 2000, concerning items of infrastructure disrepair in the Coconut Grove Business District, please be advised that members from the City Administration, led by Acting NET Director Dennis Wheeler, will make a presentation before the Commission at the December 14th meeting to give a status report as to how the deficiencies have been addressed. CAG/FKR/ds COCON GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIr._ DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT Pursuant to the City Commission's request and the City Manager's directive, please consider the following evaluation of the issues set forth by Ms. Elena V. Carpenter and Ms. Silvia M. Cejas at the City Commission meeting held on September 28, 2000. Ensuing please find an enumeration of the issues followed by a brief description of their nature, some suggestions as to how they may be addressed and the Departments and/or Agencies best suited to address the following issues: Peacock Park boardwalk, sidewalks, vandalism, planters in the Village Center, street lamps, newsracks, payphones, dangerous or unsightly conditions (utility poles, guy wires etc.), bus benches, broken planter on South Bayshore Drive, striping in the public right-of-way, parking meters, taxi stands, trash bins, clean-up crew, sandwich board signs, private dumpsters visible from the public right- of-way, South Bayshore Drive / South Miami Avenue wall, traffic signs, unified signage program, mail boxes, building faSade maintenance, sanitation of streets, park maintenance and policing, need for master plan. ISSUE PEACOCK PARK BOARDWALK DEPT/AGENCY PARKS AND RECREATION, GSA & NET Problem Solution Abundant graffiti painted onto the wood of the boardwalk and railings. Stickers placed and graffiti painted on the signs at both entrances to the boardwalk and the lampposts. Wooden pieces have been taken from the railing. Lamps along boardwalk also graffitied and at times used to chain bikes which are left unattended for long periods of time. The entire boardwalk has been painted and missing components replaced. Subsequently however, additional damage has been done to it. The N.E. Coconut Grove NET Office staff and the Peacock Park attendant shall monitor any damage and vandalism done to the boardwalk on a daily basis. Paint of the appropriate color shall be provided by GSA and kept in stock at the NET Office so that as the boardwalk is graffitied the NET "graffiti busters" will paint over it as needed. If a wooden member of the fence should need to be replaced, GSA will be contacted and attempt to respond as quickly as possible to conduct needed repairs. It is felt that such a continuous maintenance effort will frustrate the attempts of the graffiti vandals who will eventually move on elsewhere. Page I 13 Xa aC COCONUT .AOVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL _iSTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE SIDEWALKS DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & NET Problem Brick sidewalks: Throughout the district bricks are missing or are broken or have shifted so as to create a constant hazard for pedestrians. Un -enhanced segments: There are still some sections left without the brick pavers, these are typically narrower than the rest (producing a bottleneck) and not inviting nor conducive to the pedestrian activity desired by and intended for the district. Planter areas: In some trees are missing, in others undesirable weeds and shrubs are growing, in some tree stumps have been left behind. Solution Short term: The entire district is presently undergoing sidewalk repairs whereby in the faulty areas bricks are being lifted -out, the soil underneath and the sand are being compacted and roots removed and the bricks are being re -installed. These repairs are presently 70% complete. Upon completion of the project NET will send out advisory to property owners in the area that they are responsible for monitoring the portion of the right-of-way abutting their property and immediately report any damage done so that repairs can take place as well as curb any activities that may damage the sidewalk. Long term: The repairs being conducted now essentially amount to catch-up maintenance. It would be desirable in the future to re- engineer the sidewalks in a manner that would stabilize the bricks and reduce the amount of shifting that takes place. ISSUE VANDALISM DEPT/AGENCY NET, POLICE & CITY ATTORNEY Problem Graffiti, stickers and littering are the most frequent manifestations of this growing problem in the area. It is difficult to find any street furniture or fixture in the right of way from mail boxes to newsracks to pay phones, etc., that have not been affected by this clutter. Solution There is at prevent no consensus on the best way to address this and it may be that the solution lies in a combination of varied approaches like banning underage individuals from drinking establishments in the area; tougher laws against vandalism such as the implementation a zero tolerance zone; more enforcement and higher penalties for those Page 2 J _ A A '� COCONU . DROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT caught engaging in this activity; etc. ISSUE PLANTERS DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS, PLANNING & NET Problem Solution In some planters trees are missing, in others undesirable weeds and shrubs are growing, in some tree stumps have been left behind. Throughout the district there are planters of different configurations and framed in varied manners. A uniform design and landscaping proposal for these planters is needed consisting of robust specimens that do not require frequent maintenance and can survive in a high -pedestrian -traffic environment well. For those planters which are missing trees a cooperative arrangement might be made with the tree -man trust (a local tree and environment concern) to plant trees in them and provide maintenance for them. ISSUE STREET LAMPS DEPT/AGENCY GSA, PUBLIC WORKS & NET Problem Some lamps were missing and cones had been placed over the junction boxes. Other lamps were tattered, missing pieces, graffitied or stickered. Overall the maintenance of street lamps in the area is labor intensive and the recurring vandalism challenge continues to defy enforcement control. Solution Short Term: All missing lamps have been replaced and defective lamps repaired but still more lamps have been damaged since. GSA is carrying out ongoing maintenance efforts and NET will henceforth assist by monitoring any damage that occurs. Long Term. Presently Public Works is engaged in ongoing meetings with F.P.&L. are taking place to study the possibility of implementing an entirely new system with new fixtures both for street lighting, which would fall under the maintenance responsibility of F.P.&L. Page 3 COCONU ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE NEWSRACKS, DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS, CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE & NET Problem Solution Over the years enforcement of the newsrack ordinance has been inconsistent and more recently it has become evident that the existing ordinance is not only difficult to enforce due to its obsolete verbiage; i.e., it does not effectively address vandalism nor does it include N.E.T. as an enforcement agent; but also fails to address effectively the issues of visual clutter by not providing effective distancing requirements, clustering limits, uniformity of color and consistency in newsrack configuration and installation. ISSUE PAY PHONES DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & NET Problem There continues to be an overabundance of pay telephones in the public right of way in the Coconut Grove Central Commercial District. In addition, many pay phones, which are no longer in service, continue to sit abandoned and vandalized creating an eyesore in the area. Staff has held a number of public meetings over the last year with representatives of the publishers, the newsrack industry and concerned citizens. As a result a new ordinance has been drafted which will be presented before the City Commission for consideration imminently. The new ordinance addresses all those issues previously listed as deficient in the present ordinance. It is strongly felt by staff that the clear regulations and strong enforcement language in the ordinance will allow the industry to clearly understand applicable regulations and the Public Works and N.E.T. departments to properly issue permits and ensure compliance respectively. Solution The N.E. Coconut Grove NET office shall make referrals for defective or vandalized pay phones to the Public Works Department, which will ensure their prompt removal or repair as appropriate. Page 4 A A _ COCONV , DROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL .ISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE DANGEROUS OR UNSIGHTLY CONDITIONS DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & G.S.A. Problem Solution Much of the infrastructure in Coconut Grove dates back sometime and street furniture as well as utility poles, traffic lights, etc. is largely obsolete and in need of replacement. It is the desire of property and business owners in the area as well as developers that to the extent feasible, these unsightly features of the streetscape be removed and brought underground when possible and otherwise replaced by new and more ornamental ones. ISSUE BUS BENCHES DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & NET Problem Bus benches both in the Village Center and adjacent scenic transportation corridors are poorly maintained and often vandalized. The bus bench provider has been allowing commercial advertisements to be placed The G.S.A, and Public Works Departments are presently engaged in a feasibility study wherein, in consultation with utility companies and the County Administration, the possibility of eliminating the visual clutter created by these items will be closely examined in terms of cost and practicability. It must be mentioned that the County Administration has already taken a significant step forward by reconfiguring and modernizing the intersection of Grand Avenue, Main Highway and McFarlane Road. Soon to follow and already in the planning stages is the reconfiguration of the McFarlane Road Corridor and also under consideration is the reconfiguration of Commodore Plaza. (P/ease, see street /amps above) Solution The Public Works Department has reviewed the contract with the bus bench provider and is in the process of correcting the listed violations. Page 5 COCONL &ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT on benches along scenic transportation corridors. ISSUE BROKEN PLANTER ON SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Problem Due to a traffic accident, the planter situated in f ront of the Mutiny on the Bay building on South Bayshore Drive has been damaged and is in need of repairs. Solution The planter has been completely repaired and repainted by the Department of Public Works. ISSUE STRIPING IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & PARKING AUTHORITY Problem As a result of wear over time as well as numerous development projects and utility improvement projects requiring trenching and patching in the paved roads in the subject area; some stretches of the public right of way have been left with faded, interrupted and/or inadequate right of way stripping. Solution As some of the improvement projects described above have been implemented and continue to be implemented, the different portions of the right of way have been or will be repaved and re -stripped. Presently, a survey of which areas are deficient in this regard is underway. As a result of this survey, those areas that are not slated for upcoming improvements will be re -striped by the appropriated agency: Parking Authority of related to on -street parking spaces or Public Works, City or County respectively, for other stripping in the public right of way depending on whose jurisdiction it is under. Page 6 "We 115C.A50ego COCONU ,ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL _jISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE PARKING METERS DEPT/AGENCY PARKING AUTHORITY & POLICE Problem Solution Parking meters throughout the Village Center are frequently vandalized, tampered with and defaced thus creating both an eyesore and an inconvenience to patrons wishing to use them. Last year, the Miami Parking Authority replaced the existing stock of single head meters with double -headed meters so as to reduce the number of masts and thus the visual clutter they created. Currently, the Parking Authority and the Miami Police Department are working together to attack the vandalism problem by setting up a task force for this purpose. In addition, the courts of jurisdiction have been approached to implement more severe penalties, especially for repeat offenders with the goal in sight to reduce the incidence of vandalism. Meanwhile, ongoing daily maintenance efforts seek to address the recurring problems as they occur. ISSUE TAXI STANDS DEPTIAGENCY PARKING AUTHORITY, POLICE & NET Problem There are arguably insufficient taxi stands in the Village Center and those. There are presently only two taxi stands in the Village Center. Some patrons in the area would like to see more stands and all, property owners and patrons alike, would like to see the ones that exist be operated in a better manner. Solution The North East Coconut Grove NET office shall seek input from the community and taxi drivers and in consultation with the Parking Authority and the Parking Advisory committee will attempt to identify additional locations for them. The police Department will continue to monitor taxi stands to ensure they are appropriately utilized so as not to unduly disrupt traffic. Page 7 i�Jws� COCONU ..4ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL vISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE TRASH BINS DEPT/AGENCY SOLID WASTE DEPARTMENT Problem Solution The large commercial bins put in place throughout the Village Center are arguably insufficient in number to handle peak loads, they are frequently vandalized and defaced and collection efforts or servicing should increase in frequency. ISSUE CLEAN-UP CREW DEPT/AGENCY NET & SOLID WASTE Problem 100 man/hours weekly are available presently to address the subject need. This number is insufficient to properly fulfill the cleaning and sanitation needs of the Coconut Grove Village Center. This is especially the case when competing needs arise and have to be addressed by the same staff, as has been the case with the "Center Grove" Neighborhood. Upon removing the five containers presently deployed along Virginia Avenue in the residential neighborhood of "Center Grove" these should be available for deployment in the Village Center. The Solid Waste Department should establish a system wherein as the containers are serviced, staff reports any damage noted to a repair crew for a quick turnaround in replacement or repairs, as needed. As pertains to frequency of service, the establish schedule could be improved by taking into consideration peak demand days and increasing the frequency during these days. Solution Recently, additional man/hours have been assigned to this issue which now total 160 man/hors weekly exclusively for the Village Center. This, in tandem with the Solid Waste team assigned to the "Center Grove" neighborhood, has enabled the N.E. Coconut Grove NET off ice to expand its clean-up service to a seven -day -a -week schedule. Presently a two-man crew is assigned to clean-up the Village Center on Saturdays and Sundays too. It is felt that the need has thus been satisf ied." Page 8 COCONUT 40VE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL .STRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE SANDWICH BOARD SIGNS DEPT/AGENCY PLANNING & ZONING, PUBLIC WORKS, POLICE & NET Problem Solution It is often the case that parking operations and sidewalk cafe restaurants make use of removable "sandwich board" or "A -frame" signs to advertise by placing them in the public right of way. These establishments are cited by N.E.T. as often as they are seen doing this but the practice takes place largely overnight or during off -hours when N.E.T. code enforcement is not available. Improved enforcement or extended enforcement hours are thus clearly desirable but it must also be considered that the insistence of the establishments in continuing the practice in spite of the fines assessed underscores the perceived need establishments have of signs readily visible from the public -right-of-way and aimed a vehicular traffic more so than pedestrians. The Miami Police Department has been enforcing the codes provisions against the subject signage lately with a high degree of success. The City Code allows the Police department to actually remove said signage which civilian code enforcement is unable to do. There is now thus a higher degree of compliance. Extended hours for N.E.T. code enforcement including weekends are being considered presently and will be implemented imminently; this will have an impact on these infractions. It is also recommended that legislation be considered to allow the implementation in a prescribed fashion of signage tailored to vehicular and pedestrian traffic alike in an attempt to address the perceived need for directional signage in the district. Page 9 0; 5C.JM3d5M# COCONUT LOVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL .STRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE TRAFFIC SIGNS DEPT/AGENCY NET, POLICE & PUBLIC WORKS Problem Solution Traffic signs throughout the Village Center have been defaced and vandalized, many to the point of being no longer legible. The entire area is in need of new signs. These signs fall under the jurisdiction of Miami Dade County Public Works. It has been requested by correspondence to the County that this issue be addressed. The City would also be well served by redoubling its efforts to enforce existing enforcement mechanisms and possibly considering new and stricter measures to control and reduce vandalism in this area as well as Citywide. ISSUE UNIFIED SIGNAGE PROGRAM DEPT/AGENCY NET & PUBLIC WORKS Problem As stated above, (please see above, sandwich boards) the insistence of the commercial establishments in the Village Center in continuing the practice of placing signs in the right of way in spite of the penalties assessed, underscores the perceived need establishments have of signs which are readily visible by and aimed at vehicular traffic and pedestrians as well. Solution A uniform signage program district -wide made-up of trailblazers, location maps, directories and place identifiers would result in a more costumer friendly environment. This practice is commonplace in successful entertainment and retail districts nationwide and merits consideration for the Village Center area. There are also precedents worth considering within the City of Miami; i.e., Downtown, Design District, Bayside, etc. Page 10 COCONUT ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL ISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE PRIVATE DUMPSTERS VISIBLE FROM THE P.R.O.W. DEPT/AGENCY NET & SOLID WASTE Problem Solution Given the space constraints in the Village Center, a number of commercial properties have deficient dumpster facilities. The result is that the trash and the unsightly dumpsters themselves are readily visible from the public right of way creating a certainly unpleasant and often unhygienic environment in the adjacent area. Another type of violation pertains to one building which has a waste disposal facility intended for common usage by many establishments. Especially when one or more of the establishments is a restaurant these facilities if not frequently serviced and meticulously maintained are the disproportionate violators of the above- mentioned ordinance. The City of Miami Zoning Ordinance requires that such waste disposal facilities be masked effectively from public view from the public right of way by having an enclosure around them. As establishments are detected not to be in compliance with this requirement the establishment is cited and taken through the code enforcement process and thus compliance is readily archived. It is more often the case that one or another enclosure is damaged by a vehicle or by vandalism and this accounts for the frequent incidence of unsightly dumpsters. As pertains to the shared facilities, the repeated incidence of violations is often owed to an absentee landlord. In these cases pleading with the tenants the most effective way to handle the problem. Recently, increased coordination with the Solid Waste Department, which can properly act against the solid waste account holders, is beginning to yield some benefits. The solution to this issue lies in an improved coordination of enforcement between N.E.T. and Solid Waste and increased Code Enforcement activity by N.E.T. inspectors. Page 11 COCONU'. DROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE / SOUTH MIAMI AVENUE WALL DEPT/AGENCY NET Problem Solution The historic walls at either side of South Miami Avenue and South Bayshore Drive, which remain from the original Viscaya property walls, are not frequently maintained. They have the appearance at times of being unkempt and not well cared for. ISSUE MAIL BOXES DEPT/AGENCY NET Problem Mailboxes throughout the district are often subject to vandalism and despite the NET office's efforts in reporting such incidents to the Postal Service for corrective action, response is sporadic and insufficient. Letters have been addressed to the property owners responsible for maintenance; namely, the Viscaya Museum, Mercy Hospital; the Archdioceses of Miami; the Museum of Science and the Bay Heights neighborhood association requesting that the be treated with a fresh coat of paint and maintained frequently, as needed, hereafter. Please note that some of these governmental property owners supersede our jurisdiction so additional personal contact may be required in order to have the work done. Solution An effort is being made to obtain permission from the Postal Service to paint over any graffiti found on mailboxes once they approve the appropriate color and authorization is provided. Page 12 COCONUT .ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL .,ISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE BUILDING FA9ADE MAINTENANCE DEPT/AGENCY NET Problem Solution Buildings in the Village Center are on occasion themselves the subjects of vandalism or at times property owners fail to undertake corrective action when there are repairs needed or fail to properly maintain the building or the property thus detracting from the polished appearance the Village Center should enjoy. Upon noticing the need for repair or maintenance in a given property the NET inspector sends a notice of violation to the property owner informing them of the nature of the problem. Frequently the owner responds quickly to the complaint but at times the notification procedure and the time it takes to secure the needed help results in a lag wherein the property continues to look poorly. Efforts will be made to build a contact list of individuals charged wit the maintenance of properties in the Village Center thus expediting the implementation of the solution. ISSUE SANITATION OF STREETS DEPT/AGENCY NET, POLICE & SOLID WASTE Problem The Village Center is bustling with activity on weekends and the NET office does not provide clean-up services during that time. In addition, the volume of trash after peak nights in Coconut Grove exceeds the ability of a two -person crew to clean it up appropriately. The frequent incidence of flyers being spread out through the district contributes significantly to the cleanliness problem in the Village Center. Solution Recently, as mentioned above, the number of man/hours available for clean-up in the Village center have been increased and clean-up crews will be made available week - round. Legislation which further restricts the distribution of flyers and which imposes more severe penalties, and particularly enforcement of that legislation, are worth considering in an attempt to curb this illegal and detrimental activity. Additional trash bins are needed in the Village Center so as to make the disposal of garbage easier for pedestrians. Page 13 COCONUT' AOVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL—YSTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE BUILDING FACADE MAINTENANCE DEPWAGENCY NET Problem Solution Buildings in the Village Center are on occasion themselves the subjects of vandalism or at times property owners fail to undertake corrective action when there are repairs needed or fail to properly maintain the building or the property thus detracting from the polished appearance the Village Center should enjoy. Upon noticing the need for repair or maintenance in a given property the NET inspector sends a notice of violation to the property owner informing them of the nature of the problem. Frequently the owner responds quickly to the complaint but at times the notification procedure and the time it takes to secure the needed help results in a lag wherein the property continues to look poorly. Efforts will be made to build a contact list of individuals charged wit the maintenance of properties in the Village Center thus expediting the implementation of the solution. Page 14 �,,�, COCONU'i DROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL .oISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE PARK MAINTENANCE AND POLICING DEPT/AGENCY PARKSAND RECREATION & POLICE Problem ) Solution A recurring vagrancy and littering problem all significantly impact Peacock Park, Kenneth Myers Park and the Seminole Boat Ramp. These two issues combined make these otherwise extremely inviting bayfront facilities less inviting to the public and detract significantly from the natural beauty in Coconut Grove. A coordinated enforcement and maintenance program by the Police and Parks Departments for these facilities would significantly benefit the area. Admittedly the plan of action would have to take into consideration the greater Dinner Key are and the problems associated with the anchorage and the spoil islands. To this effect the Waterfront Board has set in motion a committee to study and make recommendations on these issues and to propose certain means to resolve them. Pertaining to the Seminole boat Ramp, it must be said that there is a project underway to significantly improve and enhance its appearance and utility. The Parks Department and the Public Works Department are managing said project. ISSUE NEED FOR A MASTER PLAN DEPT/AGENCY ADMINISTRATION Problem Solution It has been frequently mentioned that all of the above activities should be folded into an organized effort intended to significantly upgrade the quality of the infrastructure in and around the Coconut Grove Village Center. So many efforts being carried out in an unplanned fashion create a propensity for confusion and jeopardize optimal execution. This document could serve as a point of departure for a steering committee made up of the above mentioned departments as well as representatives of other county agencies and area stakeholders which would ensure through its action the satisfactory completion of the tasks set forth herein above. Page 15 IMeA yo COCONU GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT Pursuant to the City Commission's request and the City Manager's directive, please consider the following evaluation of the issues set forth by Ms. Elena V. Carpenter and Ms. Silvia M. Cejas at the City Commission meeting held on September 28, 2000. Ensuing please find an enumeration of the issues followed by a brief description of their nature, some suggestions as to how they may be addressed and the Departments and/or Agencies best suited to address the following issues: Peacock Park boardwalk, sidewalks, vandalism, planters in the Village Center, street lamps, newsracks, pay phones, dangerous or unsightly conditions (utility poles, guy wires etc.), bus benches, broken planter on South Bayshore Drive, striping in the public right-of-way, parking meters, taxi stands, trash bins, clean-up crew, sandwich board signs, private dumpsters visible from the public right-of-way, South Bayshore Drive / South Miami Avenue wall, traffic signs, unified signage program, mail boxes, building fagade maintenance, park maintenance and policing, sanitation of streets, need for an infrastructural improvement plan. Submitted into the pudic. record in connection v�i�w i -5c I4wwo item _Y_Q_ onJ_=jL-_0J It Walter Foernarr City Clerl, COCONUT &ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL ,j.STRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE PEACOCK PARK BOARDWALK bEPT/AGENCY PARKS AND RECREATION, GSA & NET Problem Abundant graffiti painted onto the wood of the boardwalk and railings. Stickers placed and graffiti painted on the signs at both entrances to the boardwalk and the lampposts. Wooden pieces have been taken from the railing. Lamps along boardwalk also graffitied and at times used to chain bikes which are left unattended for long periods of time. solution The entire boardwalk has been painted and missing components replaced. Subsequently however, additional damage has been done to it. The N.E. Coconut Grove NET Office staff and the Peacock Park attendant shall monitor any damage and vandalism done to the boardwalk on a daily basis. Paint of the appropriate color shall be provided by GSA and kept in stock at the NET Office so that as the boardwalk is graffitied the NET "graffiti busters" will paint over it as needed. If a wooden member of the fence should need to be replaced, GSA will be contacted and attempt to respond as quickly as possible to conduct needed repairs. It is felt that such a continuous maintenance effort will frustrate the attempts of the graffiti vandals who will eventually move on elsewhere. Page 2 Issue DEPWAGENCY PROBLEM FL.. ,COCK PARK BOARDWALK PARKS AND RECREATION, GSA & NET SOLUTION 'T cry clerk COCONUT (ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL ,,iSTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE SIDEWALKS bEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & NET Problem Brick sidewalks: Throughout the district bricks are missing or are broken or have shifted so as to create a constant hazard for pedestrians. Un -enhanced segments'. There are still some sections left without the brick pavers, these are typically narrower than the rest (producing a bottleneck) and not inviting nor conducive to the pedestrian activity desired by and intended for the district. Planter areas: In some trees are missing, in others undesirable weeds and shrubs are growing, in some tree stumps have been left behind. Solution Short term: The entire district is presently undergoing sidewalk repairs whereby in the faulty areas bricks are being lifted -out, the soil underneath and the sand are being compacted and roots removed and the bricks are being re -installed. These repairs are presently 70% complete. Upon completion of the project NET will send out advisory to property owners in the area that they are responsible for monitoring the portion of the right-of-way abutting their property and immediately report any damage done so that repairs can take place as well as curb any activities that may damage the sidewalk. Long term: The repairs being conducted now essentially amount to catch-up maintenance. It would be desirable in the future to re-engineer the sidewalks in a manner that would stabilize the bricks and reduce the amount of shifting that takes place. ►7 � sc.�3se� Page 3 Issue SIDL — ALKS DEPWAGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & NET PROBLEM SOLUTION W., City Clerk C4 asee COCONUT &ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL vLSTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE VANDALISM DEPT/AGENCY NET, POLICE & CITY ATTORNEY Problem Graffiti, stickers and littering are the most frequent manifestations of this growing problem in the area. It is difficult to find any street furniture or fixture in the right of way from mail boxes to newsracks to pay phones, etc., that have not been affected by this clutter. Solution There is at present no consensus on the best way to address this and it may be that the solution lies in a combination of varied approaches like banning underage individuals from drinking establishments in the area; tougher laws against vandalism such as the implementation a zero tolerance zone; more enforcement and higher penalties for those caught engaging in this activity; etc. Page 4 Issue VANU,,L-I5M bEPT/AGENCY NET, POLICE & CITY ATTORNEY PROBLEM SOLUTION COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL ,.CSTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE PLANTERS DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS, PLANNING & NET Problem In some planters trees are missing, in others undesirable weeds and shrubs are growing, in some tree stumps have been left behind. Throughout the district there are planters of different configurations and framed in varied manners. Solution A uniform design and landscaping proposal for these planters is needed consisting of robust specimens that do not require frequent maintenance and can survive in a high -pedestrian -traffic environment well. For those planters which are missing trees a cooperative arrangement might be made with the tree -man trust (a local tree and environment concern) to plant trees in them and provide maintenance for them. R: ryry .a 1 ✓ r4f 4..iy i� � sc.►ssoo+ 10 Page 5 Issue PLAN . %---PS DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS, PLANNING A NET PROBLEM SOLUTION Ci., �y vrik COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL wISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE STREET LAMPS DEPT/AGENCY GSA, PUBLIC WORKS & NET Problem Some lamps were missing and cones had been placed over the junction boxes. Other lamps were tattered, missing pieces, graffitied or stickered. Overall the maintenance of street lamps in the area is labor intensive and the recurring vandalism challenge continues to defy enforcement control. Solution Short Term: All missing lamps have been replaced and defective lamps repaired but still more lamps have been damaged since. GSA is carrying out ongoing maintenance efforts and NET will henceforth assist by monitoring any damage that occurs. Long Term: Presently Public Works is engaged in ongoing meetings with F.P.&L. are taking place to study the possibility of implementing an entirely new system with new fixtures both for street lighting, which would fall under the maintenance responsibility of F.P.&L. w Page 6 Issue STs.,ET LAMPS DEPT/AGENCY GSA, PUBLIC WORKS & NET PROBLEM SOLUTION r� . �.. �e IVY-.� VQi�ii QL COCONUT &ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL wISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE NEWSRACK5 DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS, CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE & NET Problem Over the years enforcement of the newsrack ordinance has been inconsistent and more recently it has become evident that the existing ordinance is not only difficult to enforce due to its obsolete verbiage; i.e., it does not effectively address vandalism nor does it include N.E.T. as an enforcement agent; but also fails to address effectively the issues of visual clutter by not providing effective distancing requirements, clustering limits, uniformity of color and consistency in newsrack configuration and installation. Solution Staff has held a number of public meetings over the last year with representatives of the publishers, the newsrack industry and concerned citizens. As a result a new ordinance has been drafted which will be presented before the City Commission for consideration imminently. The new ordinance addresses all those issues previously listed as deficient in the present ordinance. It is strongly felt by staff that the clear regulations and strong enforcement language in the ordinance will allow the industry to clearly understand applicable regulations and the Public Works and N.E.T. departments to properly issue permits and ensure compliance respectively. a , Page 7 Issue NEW CRACKS DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS, CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE & NET PROBLEM SOLUTION V D 6coasm/ A L A A� i $ a — COCONUT &ROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL viSTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE PAY PHONES DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & NET Problem There continues to be an overabundance of pay telephones in the public right of way in the Coconut Grove Central Commercial District. In addition, many pay phones, which are no longer in service, continue to sit abandoned and vandalized creating an eyesore in the area. Solution The N.E. Coconut Grove NET office shall make referrals for defective or vandalized pay phones to the Public Works Department, which will ensure their prompt removal or repair as appropriate. lb;:ScjSad F, /M = ND .0, IS H -0-004 n1 - IE COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL uISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE DANGEROUS OR UNSIGHTLY CONDITIONS DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & G.5.A. Problem Much of the infrastructure in Coconut Grove dates back sometime and street furniture as well as utility poles, traffic lights, etc. is largely obsolete and in need of replacement. It is the desire of property and business owners in the area as well as developers that to the extent feasible, these unsightly features of the streetscape be removed and brought underground when possible and otherwise replaced by new and more ornamental ones. solution The G.S.A. and Public Works Departments are presently engaged in a feasibility study wherein, in consultation with utility companies and the County Administration, the possibility of eliminating the visual clutter created by these items will be closely examined in terms of cost and practicability. It must be mentioned that the County Administration has already taken a significant step forward by reconfiguring and modernizing the intersection of Grand Avenue, Main Highway and McFarlane Road. Soon to follow and already in the planning stages is the reconfiguration of the McFarlane Road Corridor and also under consideration is the reconfiguration of Commodore Plaza. (Please, see street lamps above) C L it: -q1 Page 9 Issue [)AN,.,ER0U5 OR UNSIGHTLY CONDI 1:'ON5 DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS G.S.A. PROBLEM SOLUTION COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL vISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE BUS BENCHES DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & NET Problem Bus benches both in the Village Center and adjacent scenic transportation corridors are poorly maintained and often vandalized. The bus bench provider has been allowing commercial advertisements to be placed on benches along scenic transportation corridors. Solution The Public Works Department has reviewed the contract with the bus bench provider and is in the process of correcting the listed violations. y 10 At�--�- Page 0 l4" • A' COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL uISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE BROKEN PLANTER ON SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Problem Due to a traffic accident, the planter situated in front of the Mutiny on the Bay building on South Bayshore Drive has been damaged and is in need of repairs. Solution The planter has been completely repaired and repainted by the Department of Public Works. jj Page 11 Issue BROR,N PLANTER ON SOUTH BAYS H uRf- DRIVE DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT r^ :, PROBLEM SOLUTION 1Jr 3 W$qw COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL tASTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE STRIPING IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & PARKING AUTHORITY Problem As a result of wear over time as well as numerous development projects and utility improvement projects requiring trenching and patching in the paved roads in the subject area; some stretches of the public right of way have been left with faded, interrupted and/or inadequate right of way stripping. Solution As some of the improvement projects described above have been implemented and continue to be implemented, the different portions of the right of way have been or will be repaved and re -stripped. Presently, a survey of which areas are deficient in this regard is underway. As a result of this survey, those areas that are not slated for upcoming improvements will be re -striped by the appropriated agency: Parking Authority of related to on -street parking spaces or Public Works, City or County respectively, for other stripping in the public right of way depending on whose jurisdiction it is under. Page 12 Issue 5 . ,.IPING IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT -Ur -WAY —, DEPT/AGENCY PUBLIC WORKS & PARKING AUTHORITY "c% - PROBLEM ° PROBLEM SOLUTION COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE PARKING METERS DEPT/AGENCY PARKING AUTHORITY & POLICE Problem Parking meters throughout the Village Center are frequently vandalized, tampered with and defaced thus creating both an eyesore and an inconvenience to patrons wishing to use them. Solution Last year, the Miami Parking Authority replaced the existing stock of single head meters with double -headed meters so as to reduce the number of masts and thus the visual clutter they created. Currently, the Parking Authority and the Miami Police Department are working together to attack the vandalism problem by setting up a task force for this purpose. In addition, the courts of jurisdiction have been approached to implement more severe penalties, especially for repeat offenders with the goal in sight to reduce the incidence of vandalism. Meanwhile, ongoing daily maintenance efforts seek to address the recurring problems as they occur. Page 13 '7:� c�•�sar Issue PARKiNG METERS DEPT/AGENCY PARKING AUTHORITY &POLICE PROBLEM SOLUTION COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL uiSTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE TAXI STANDS DEPT/AGENCY PARKING AUTHORITY, POLICE & NET Problem There are presently only two taxi stands in the Village Center. Some patrons in the area would like to see more stands and all, property owners and patrons alike, would like to see the ones that exist be operated in a better manner. Solution The North East Coconut Grove NET office shall seek input from the community and taxi drivers and in consultation with the Parking Authority and the Parking Advisory committee will attempt to identify additional locations for them. The police Department will continue to monitor taxi stands to ensure they are appropriately utilized so as not to unduly disrupt traffic. �` �. Ck)rit Page 14 0 Issue TAX-- STANDS DEPT/AGENCY PARKING AUTHORITY, POLICE & NET PROBLEM ��x�ssw JL C COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL uISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE TRASH BINS DEPT/AGENCY SOLID WASTE DEPARTMENT Problem The large commercial bins put in place throughout the Village Center are arguably insufficient in number to handle peak loads, they are frequently vandalized and defaced and collection efforts or servicing should increase in frequency. Solution Upon removing the five containers presently deployed along Virginia Avenue in the residential neighborhood of "Center Grove" these should be available for deployment in the Village Center. The Solid Waste Department should establish a system wherein as the containers are serviced, staff reports any damage noted to a repair crew for a quick turnaround in replacement or repairs, as needed. As pertains to frequency of service, the establish schedule could be improved by taking into consideration peak demand days and increasing the frequency during these days. ..a„... tilyt'1aiK �.��� Page 15 Issue TRA,,H BINS DEPT/AGENCY SOLID WASTE DEPARTMENT PROBLEM SOLUTION fttft-��, � aa2o c4aasew COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL uISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE CLEAN-UP CREW DEPT/AGENCY NET & SOLID WASTE Problem 100 man/hours weekly are available presently to address the subject need. This number is insufficient to properly fulfill the cleaning and sanitation needs of the Coconut Grove Village Center. This is especially the case when competing needs arise and have to be addressed by the same staff, as has been the case with the "Center Grove" Neighborhood. Solution Recently, additional man/hours have been assigned to this issue which now total 160 man/hors weekly exclusively for the Village Center. This, in tandem with the Solid Waste team assigned to the "Center Grove" neighborhood, has enabled the N.E. Coconut Grove NET office to expand its clean- up service to a seven -day -a -week schedule. Presently a two-man crew is assigned to clean-up the Village Center on Saturdays and Sundays too. It is felt that the need has thus been satisfied. �,SG.►�Sod Page 16 ,o Issue CLEAN UP -CREW DEPT/AGENCY NET $ SOLID WASTE P•I: c��.,y � J i);xrWord n • 1 • / 1 COCONUT vROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE SANDWICH BOARD SIGNS DEPT/AGENCY PLANNING & ZONING, PUBLIC WORKS, POLICE & NET Problem It is often the case that parking operations and sidewalk cafe restaurants make use of removable "sandwich board" or "A -frame" signs to advertise by placing them in the public right of way. These establishments are cited by N.E.T. as often as they are seen doing this but the practice takes place largely overnight or during off -hours when N.E.T. code enforcement is not available. Improved enforcement or extended enforcement hours are thus clearly desirable but it must also be considered that the insistence of the establishments in continuing the practice in spite of the fines assessed underscores the perceived need establishments have of signs readily visible from the public -right-of-way and aimed a vehicular traffic more so than pedestrians. Solution The Miami Police Department has been enforcing the codes provisions against the subject signage lately with a high degree of success. The City Code allows the Police department to actually remove said signage from the premises which civilian code enforcement is unable to do. There is now thus a higher degree of compliance. Extended hours for N.E.T. code enforcement including weekends are being considered presently and will be implemented imminently; this will have an impact on these infractions. It is also recommended that legislation be considered to allow the implementation in a prescribed fashion of signage tailored to vehicular and pedestrian traffic alike in an attempt to address the perceived need for directional signage in the district. Page 17 Issue SANDWICH BOARD SIGNS DEPT/AGENCY PLANNING & ZONING, PUBLIC WORKS, POLIdE &-NET PROBLEM SOLUTION COCONUT vROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE TRAFFIC SIGNS DEPT/AGENCY NET, POLICE & PUBLIC WORKS Problem Traffic signs throughout the Village Center have been defaced and vandalized, many to the point of being no longer legible. The entire area is in need of new signs. Solution These signs fall under the jurisdiction of Miami Dade County Public Works. It has been requested by correspondence to the County that this issue be addressed. The City would also be well served by redoubling its efforts to enforce existing enforcement mechanisms and possibly considering new and stricter measures to control and reduce vandalism in this area as well as Citywide. //.?/... , Page 18 Issue TRAFFIC SIGNS DEPT/AGENCY NET, POLICE & PUBLIC WORKS PROBLEM v• s ire `-lG..1_.-.1_l�vla. SOLUTION 3 COCONUT vROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE UNIFIED SIGNAGE PROGRAM DEPT/AGENCY NET & PUBLIC WORKS Problem As stated above, (please see above, sandwich boards) the insistence of the commercial establishments in the Village Center in continuing the practice of placing signs in the right of way in spite of the penalties assessed, underscores the perceived need establishments have of signs which are readily visible by and aimed at vehicular traffic and pedestrians as well. solution A uniform signage program district -wide made-up of trailblazers, location maps, directories and place identifiers would result in a more costumer friendly environment. This practice is commonplace in successful entertainment and retail districts nationwide and merits consideration for the Village Center area. There are also precedents worth considering within the City of Miami; i.e., Downtown, Design District, Bayside, etc. Q .4 A = n V Xor, - - �- Page 19 glvdm� 4 BRITS S ',, ' COCONUT cvROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL UISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE PRIVATE DUMPSTERS VISIBLE FROM THE P.R.O.W. DEPT/AGENCY NET & SOLID WASTE Problem Given the space constraints in the Village Center, a number of commercial properties have deficient dumpster facilities. The result is that the trash and the unsightly dumpsters themselves are readily visible from the public right of way creating a certainly unpleasant and often unhygienic environment in the adjacent area. Another type of violation pertains to one building which has a waste disposal facility intended for common usage by many establishments. Especially when one or more of the establishments is a restaurant these facilities if not frequently serviced and meticulously maintained are the disproportionate violators of the above-mentioned ordinance. Solution The City of Miami Zoning Ordinance requires that such waste disposal facilities be masked effectively from public view from the public right of way by having an enclosure around them. As establishments are detected not to be in compliance with this requirement the establishment is cited and taken through the code enforcement process and thus compliance is readily archived. It is more often the case that one or another enclosure is damaged by a vehicle or by vandalism and this accounts for the frequent incidence of unsightly dumpsters. As pertains to the shared facilities, the repeated incidence of violations is often owed to an absentee landlord. In these cases pleading with the tenants the most effective way to handle the problem. Recently, increased coordination with the Solid Waste Department, which can properly act against the solid waste account holders, is beginning to yield some benefits. The solution to this issue lies in an improved coordination of enforcement between N.E.T. and Solid Waste and increased Code Enforcement activity by N.E.T. inspectors. Page 20 Issue PRIVATE DUMPSTERS VISIBLE FROM 448 P.R:O`Vi/ DEPT/AGENCY NET & SOLID WASTE c PROBLEM ;t SOLUTION ��3G�S5c� COCONUT DROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE SOUTH BAYSHORE DRIVE / SOUTH MIAMI AVENUE WALL DEPT/AGENCY NET Problem The historic walls at either side of South Miami Avenue and South Bayshore Drive, which remain from the original Viscaya property walls, are not frequently maintained. They have the appearance at times of being unkempt and not well cared for. Solution Letters have been addressed to the property owners responsible for maintenance; namely, the Viscaya Museum, Mercy Hospital; the Archdioceses of Miami; the Museum of Science and the Bay Heights neighborhood association requesting that the be treated with a fresh coat of paint and maintained frequently, as needed, hereafter. Please note that some of these governmental property owners supersede our jurisdiction so additional personal contact may be required in order to have the work done. Page 21 Issue SOU i H BAYSHORE DRIVE/SOUTH MlmMI AVENUE WALL DEPT/AGENCY NET PROBLEM SOLUTION COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE MAIL BOXES DEPT/AGENCY NET Problem Mailboxes throughout the district are often subject to vandalism and despite the NET office's efforts in reporting such incidents to the Postal Service for corrective action, response is sporadic and insufficient. Solution An effort is being made to obtain permission from the Postal Service to paint over any graffiti found on mailboxes once they approve the appropriate color and authorization is provided. 10 Page 22 1' COCONUT vROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL uISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE BUILDING FACADE MAINTENANCE DEPT/AGENCY NET Problem Buildings in the Village Center are on occasion themselves the subjects of vandalism or at times property owners fail to undertake corrective action when there are repairs needed or fail to properly maintain the building or the property thus detracting from the polished appearance the Village Center should enjoy. Solution Upon noticing the need for repair or maintenance in a given property the NET inspector sends a notice of violation to the property owner informing them of the nature of the problem. Frequently the owner responds quickly to the complaint but at times the notification procedure and the time it takes to secure the needed help results in a lag wherein the property continues to look poorly. Efforts will be made to build a contact list of individuals charged wit the maintenance of properties in the Village Center thus expediting the implementation of the solution. ,Ay n .. - ^....., Page 23 VIP JL - 715c�as�d Issue BUIDLING FACADE MAINTENANCE DEPWAGENCY NET '4:r.it c gY� city ciork, PROBLEM SOLUTION COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE PARK MAINTENANCE AND POLICING DEPT/AGENCY PARKSAND RECREATION & POLICE Problem A recurring vagrancy and littering problem all significantly impact Peacock Park, Kenneth Myers Park and the Seminole Boat Ramp. These two issues combined make these otherwise extremely inviting bayfront facilities less inviting to the public and detract significantly from the natural beauty in Coconut Grove. Solution A coordinated enforcement and maintenance program by the Police and Parks Departments for these facilities would significantly benefit the area. Admittedly the plan of action would have to take into consideration the greater Dinner Key are and the problems associated with the anchorage and the spoil islands. To this effect the Waterfront Board has set in motion a committee to study and make recommendations on these issues and to propose certain means to resolve them. Pertaining to the Seminole boat Ramp, it must be said that there is a project underway to significantly improve and enhance its appearance and utility. The Parks Department and the Public Works Department are managing said project. W�3 .. .. Page 24 COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DxSTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE SANITATION OF STREETS DEPT/AGENCY NET, POLICE & SOLID WASTE Problem The Village Center is bustling with activity on weekends and the NET office does not provide clean-up services during that time. In addition, the volume of trash after peak nights in Coconut Grove exceeds the ability of a two -person crew to clean it up appropriately. The frequent incidence of flyers being spread out through the district contributes significantly to the cleanliness problem in the Village Center. Solution Recently, as mentioned above, the number of man/hours available for clean-up in the Village center have been increased and clean-up crews will be made available week -round. Legislation which further restricts the distribution of flyers and which imposes more severe penalties, and particularly enforcement of that legislation, are worth considering in an attempt to curb this illegal and detrimental activity. Additional trash bins are needed in the Village Center so as to make the disposal of garbage easier for pedestrians. _� �� Page 25 COCONUT GROVE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT ISSUE NEED FOR AN INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN DEPT/AGENCY ADMINISTRATION Problem It has been frequently mentioned that all of the above activities should be folded into an organized effort intended to significantly upgrade the quality of the infrastructure in and around the Coconut Grove Village Center. So many efforts being carried out in an unplanned fashion create a propensity for confusion and jeopardize optimal execution. Solution An infrastructural improvements plan should serve as a point of departure for a steering committee made up of the above mentioned departments as well as representatives of other county agencies and area stakeholders which would ensure through its action the satisfactory completion of the tasks set forth herein above. In this plan each improvement proposal might become a distinct project assigned to the department or departments whose assigned functions encompass its execution. In turn, the steering committee would periodically review the progress made and report back to the Commission. 0bc4%*e0_ Page 26