HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-01-0440J-02-206
S/10/O1
RESOLUTION NO. 01— 440
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION,
WITH ATTACHMENT, ACCEPTING, IN PRINCIPLE, THE
MIAMI RIVER GREENWAY ACTION PLAN, ATTACHED AS
"EXHIBIT A," AS A PLANNING TOOL FOR THE
FUTURE DEVELOPMENT AND PRESERVATION OF THE
MIAMI RIVER GREENWAY STUDY AREA AS DEFINED IN
THE PLAN, SUBJECT TO CERTAIN CONDITIONS.
WHEREAS,
on February 21,
2001, the Planning Advisory
Board
by a vote of
five to zero
(5-0) adopted Resolution PAS
23-01
RECOMMENDING
APPROVAL of
the final draft of the
Miami
River Greenway Action Plan (the "Plan"), attached as "Exhibit A";
and
WHEREAS, the Department of Planning and Development
recommends acceptance of the Plan, subject to:
(a) the Plan not being binding upon the City of Miami,
(b) implementation of certain components of the Plan
undergo further analysis for appropriateness, and
(c) if during such analysis, it is determined that the Plan
recommendations should not be implemented because it
will not be in the best interest of the City, such
action shall not be taken;
and
jay''
CITY COMMUM
Von Ina Or,
MAY 10 2001
A"Ohom "
01.- 440
WHEREAS, the City recognizes that, prior to implementation,
some of the recommendations incorporated in the Plan shall
require further approval by the City Commission;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF MIAMI, FLORIDA:
Section 1. The recitals and findings contained in the
Preamble to this Resolution are adopted by reference and
incorporated as if fully set forth in this Section.
Section 2. The Miami River Greenway Action Plan (the
"Plan"), attached as "Exhibit A," is accepted, in principle, as a
planning tool for the future development and preservation of the
Miami River Greenway Study Area, as defined in the Plan, subject
to the following conditions:
a) implementation of certain components of the Plan
shall undergo further study for appropriateness
and upon a finding that such implementation is not
in the best interest of the City of Miami, such
component(s) shall not be implemented; and
b) certain components incorporated in the Plan shall
require further approval by the City Commission
prior to their implementation.
Page 2 of 2 01- 440
Section 3. This Resolution shall become effective
immediately upon its adoption and signature of the Mayor.11
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 10th day of May , 2001.
JOE CAROLLO, MAYOR
In ecowdance wkh Miami Code Seo. 2.38. since the Mayor did not kdWb eppmvnl of
this ftlelation by signing it in tho do3lgnated pla Provided, said I ,n�rI., ..1
ATTEST: becomes effective with the olapse of !or. ;10; W m t of Ct.n„�.. ::
regarding same, without tho Mayor, rOW g o.
WALTER J . FOEMAN Wa r J. oe n, by Cierk
CITY CLERK
APPROVED
W512ft : GMM : BSS
CORRECTNESS:&
k� If the Mayor does not sign this Resolution, it shall become effective at
the end of ten calendar days from the date it was passed and adopted.
It the Mayor vetoes this Resolution, it shall become effective
immediately upon override of the veto by the City Commission.
Page 3 of 3 01" 440
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Miami River Greenway
� Action Plan Executive Summary
•
is
IIiZiZ1L3L
Introduction/Overview
This draft Executive Summary for the Miami River Greenway Action Plan
provides a brief introduction and overview of the project. The Miami River
Greenway Study Area consists of the easternmost 5.5 miles of the Miami River,
from the Salinity Dam located at approximately NW 36 Street and NI1' 40
Avenue, to the mouth of the River at Biscayne Bay. The Study Area consists of
those lands on both sides of the River, extending out approximately 3,500 feet
from the river at the longest point on either side. The land on both sides of the
Comfort Canal (also known as South Fork), Wagner Creek and the Tamiami
Canal extends out approximately 500 feet at the longest point on either side.
Although the Miami River is a short river, its history is long. The Miami
River evolved over thousands of years from a tidal channel into a freshwater
stream that carried Hater from the Everglades to Biscayne Bay. The river is the
oldest natural landmark in southeast Florida. From 1909 to 1933 the river was
lengthened and widened. The famous Miami rapids ceased in 1909 when the
Miami Canal was built as pari of the Everglades drainage project. Remnants of
the rapids can be seen at the City of :Miami's Paradise Point Park at NW South
River Drive. When digging for the Miami Canal began, the water table dropped
dramatically and Everglades muck slid into the once clear waters of the river.
Concern over environmental degradation, water pollution, bridge openings and
the generally unkept appearance of the Miami River has been voiced since the
1940s. In the early 1970s studies were undertaken by the Chamber of Com-
merce, the City of Miami, the Dade County Pollution Control Department, the
US Geological Survey, the Central and Southern
Flood Control District, the US Armv Corps of Engi-
neers, Secretary of State Richard Stone's Office and
the Dade County Planning Advisory Board on the
deplorable conditions along and within the River. As
a result there were code enforcement sweeps to clean
up. The 1976-86 Miami Comprehensive Neighbor-
hood Plan recognized the River as a special district
and stated that "the Miami River is a working river
and a major resource. It is presently underutilized and
offers many redevelopment opportunities". As we
enter the 21st Century, the Miami River is beginning
to realize its potential as a major community resource
through this Greenway Plan.
Miami River Greenway Executive Summary I
01- 440
How this Plan I Prepared is
This draft Action Plan has been prepared by Greenways Incorporated in
partnership with the Trust for Public Land and the Miami River Commission.
Meaningful public involvement h.Is been critically important in the preparation of
the draft Action Plan. Several methods have been used to solicit input from
Miami -Dade residents. First, numerous stakeholder
meetings have occurred between tyle consultant and
various interest groups; second, public worksessions - ••
have been held at various locations throughout the
study area to provide residents with an opportunity to
view and comment on draft recommendations; third, a
newsletter has been published several times provid-
ing an update of the planning proc!ss and draft
recommendations; fourth, a public opinion survey was
distributed, collected and compiled to solicit specific
information from the public. The hollowing provides
a more detailed discussion for each of these methods
of public input.
Additionally, many prior and current planning
efforts have been summarized and incorporated into the development of this
Action Plar. These include previous master plans for the Miami River corridor,
as well as specific site development plans for public and private properties that
border the river channel.
Currently, a full version of tht: Draft Action Plan has been distributed to
approximately 75 individuals and organizations. Comments on the Draft Plan
will be received throu;h the month of October 2000. The consultant team will
take all comments received and begin a full revision of the draft plan in Novem-
ber. It is anticipated that the final plan will be made available in January 2001.
Characterization of the River
From the stakeholder meetings and an inventory of existing conditions, it is
apparent that a number of different themes exist within the Miami River Green.
way corridor. These river themes help to define the unique features, cultural
influences and physical conditions of the river. For other significant river
projects around the nation, river themes have helped to achieve a better under-
standing and long-term support for project initiatives. The following represent
the principal river greenway themes identified for the Miami River.
"The Miami River is Our Home"
The Miami River is home to a multi -cultural population. Currently, few
public gateways exist to encourage either visual or physical interaction with the
river. In fact local residents have become increasing isolated from this valuable
natural resource. A river greenway system would serve to reconnect the diverse
cultural and ethnic neighborhoods adjacent to the river to this important commu-
nity asset.
Miami River Greenway Executive Summary
M 6:
•
ot- 440
2
•
•
•
�ZiI1Z1 .
"The Miami River is Morking River" •
The Miami River is an international transfer point of cargo for a large
collection of shippers. The river's navigation and commercial shipping directly
generate 2 million tons of cargo each year with an
estimated value of more than S3 billion annually. The
river constitutes one of the largest employers in
downtown Miami, and most importantly offers a
range of jobs hard to find in other employment sectors
of the downtown area. The industrial complex along
the river has erown steadily during the past fifty
years.
"The Miami River is a Destination
Landscape"
A destination landscape is one that serves as an
attraction for people and activity (i.e.. South Beach).
Destination landscapes generate a critical mass of
people. they are generally attractive landscapes and
they usually result in economic activity. The pro-
posed Miami River Greenway and the long standing !Miami Riverwalk are the
key elements to creatine a successful destination landscape along the river. As
vvah other successful r,vcr landscapes throughout the nation, Miami riust under-
stand that a destination landscape is a blend of scenic attraction and robust
cemmerce.
"The Miami River is an Important Environmental Resource At Risk"
The word "Miami" means sweet water. and for as long as humans have
occupied the landscape, the Miami River has been an important source of water,
animal life and plant life. Even though it is polluted today and supports a large
industrial marine use, the river ecosystem remains an important functional
element of the rtverine landscape. The ereenway can instill a new
stewardship ethic for this cntically important resource. This can
be realized through a comprehensive river dredging and shoreline
stabilization program that would serve to remove contaminated
sediments from the river and reduce pollution loads in the tributar-
ies and main channel. With mutual support for both industrial and
recreational uses. and a renewed interest in stewardship and
conservation, the Miami River can continue to be a valuable
natural resource for Miami and South Florida well into the 21 st
Century.
Miami River Greenway Executive Summary 3
01- 440
"The Miami Rjver is aeon amic Resource" •
After international trade, tea% el and tourism is the most important industry
to the Greater Miami economy. The Miami River landscape has not realized the
full benefits of the tourism industry. The River is quickly becoming a sought after
address for residential, commercial and retail development. While the "working
river' continues to be the most significant eco-
nomic element of the river landscape, tourism and
higher property values will enrich this economic
base to make the river a major economic force in
the local economy. The river greenway system
will further enhance this expansion of economic
activity. The greenway will make the river
landscape accessible. attractive, and connected.
which in turn will continue to increase the value
of property adjacent to the riverbanks.
"The Miami River Is Part of Our Heritage"
The mouth of the !Miami River has been a
focal point for human settlement and activity for
more than 2000 years. There are many important
sites and feature landscapes along the river that
should be identified and interpreted. Loca:
residents and visitors would gain a greater appre-
ciation for the significance of the river landscape through these endeavors. The
Greenway can become a land use that supports the interpretation of this heritage,
providing pedestrian and water-based access to sites along the river corridor.
•
Summary of Key Recommendations
The Miami River Greenway development program consists of five key
elements: 1) points of public entry i o the river; 2 i a primary system of public
trails and walkways; 31 improvements and enhancements to existing parks; 4)
improvements and enhancements to existing bridges and roadways; and 51
improvements and enhancements to river channel banks.
Improvements to the River Channel
First and foremost, the Miami River is scheduled to be dredged of excess
sediment. This project will be completed through a unique partnership between
the city of Miami, Miami -Dade County and the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Dredging will improve navigation and help to clean the river of debris. Addition-
ally. it is recommended that river bank stabilization take place after river dredg-
ing is complete. This will restore native trees and vegetation to portions of the
river shoreline, and create habitat for wildlife.
Points of Public Entry
Access to the Miami River will be improved in several ways. First, public
parks along the river will be cleaned up and new facilities will be added so that
residents and visitors will have access to a linked system of trails and recreation
facilities. Additionally, neighborhood gateways will be added at key locations
along the 5.5 -mile river corridor. A'so, bridge improvements are scheduled to
take place in the coming years, improving pedestrian and bicycle access to the
Miami River Greenway Executive. Summary
4
01- 440
•
river corridor. It is also liohat some private lands will be redevelovand
opened for l;mited public access and use.
System of Trails, Bikeways and Walkways
Perhaps the most significant recommendation from this plan is the comple-
tion of a comprehensive network of trails, bikeway s and walkways adjacent to
the river corridor. The Miami Riverwalk will be extended and completed within
the lower section of the river corridor, on both sides of the river from Biscayne
Bav to the Fifth Street bridge. This will offer residents and visitors an extensive
promenade (similar to the Malecon) along the rivers edge. West of Fifth Street,
and throughout the rest of the river corridor, a system of on -road bicycle facili-
ties, sidewalk improvements and off-road trails will weave through the existing
urban fabric adjacent to the river. Among the improvements will include the
Overtown Safewalk, a bicycle and pedestrian corridor from the «'inn Dixie
Supermarket at 12 Street to Biscayne Bay at Bicentennial
Park The trail system will serve to connect people to the
river, and to destinations, neighborhoods and parks adjacent to
the river.
Cost of Facility Development
The improvements to the river corridor that are recom-
mended in this Action Plan will be accomplished over the
course of rnanv %ears. It is estimated that the total cost of
these improvements will exceed S3 million. A final cost
estimate has not yet been completed for all the improvements
that are recommended by the draft Action Plan.
Sources of Funding
Several sources of funding have been identified within the draft Action
Plan. This includes funding from both public and private sector sources. Also
under consideration is the possible implementation of a special Tax Increment
Financing District for the river corridor. Lander this TIF program, tax revenue
collected within the river corridor would be earmarked and used to fund the
improvements to the river. As economic values increase on the property adjacent
to the river, so will the amount within the TIF fund. This will allow more im-
provements to be made over time.
Operation and Management Strategies
A key element in the future success of the Miami River Greenway project
will be the management and operation of the facilities along the 5.5 -mile
riverfront project. A public opinion survey conducted by the consultant revealed
the preference of local residents to have a public private organization serve as
principal facilitator and coordinator of the Greenway. The Miami River Com-
mission is an existing organization that might be capable of fulfilling the respon-
sibilities of coordinating the future development of the Greenway. Additionally,
the City of Miami, Miami -Dade County and the State of Florida will play an
important role in advancing the development and management of facilities along
• the Miami River. Finally, private property owners with property on the river will
play an important role in the successful management of Greenway facilities.
Miami River Greenway Executive Summary
ot- 440
5
0
How to Get Involved in
Is
the Greenway Project
If you are interested in learning more about the Greenway project there are
several things you can do. The first is to attend one of the public worksessions
that will be held on November 8, 9 or 10. The second is to provide your written
comments to the Miami River Commission or the Trust for Public Land. Finally.
for additional information, contact Lavinia Freeman, Program Manager at the
Trust for Public Land (305) 667-0409.
•
•
C7
Miami River Greenway Executive Summary 6
01- 440
0
PLANNING FACT SHEET
APPLICANT Miami River Commission
HEARING DATE February 21, 2001.
REQUESTILOCATION Approval, in principal, of the Miami River Greenway Plan.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION N/A
PETITION Consideration of approving, in principal, the Miami River
Greenway Plan, as a guiding tool for the future development and
preservation of the Miami River Greenway Study Area, as defined
in the plan.
PLANNING
RECOMMENDATION Approval with conditions.
BACKGROUND AND The Planning and Zoning Department concurs with the elements
ANALYSIS of the Miami River Greenway Plan as valuable tool in guiding
future efforts to enhance and preserve the Miami River.
The Planning and Zoning Department recommends approval
with the condition that the Pian not be binding upon the city and
that implementation of certain components undergo further
analysis for appropriateness. If at such time, In the analysis of
an individual component of the plan, It is determined that such
an element would not be in the best interest of the city, such
action shall not be taken.
PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD: Approval
CITY COMMISSION Continued from CC of March 29, 2001.
APPLICATION NUMBER Discussion Item 01
VOTE: 5.0
....,.. ............_.._..._..........__......_.........._...................._......._..__...__.....,._...__................_............ .......
............
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CITY OF MIAMI • PLANNING DEPARTMENT
ii
444 SW 2N0 AVENUE, 31" FLOOR P MIAMI, FLORIDA, 33130 PHONE !3051416.1400
! ........... ............... ..... .................. _............. _... ........................._....................... ........... .............. .................. _.__.......................... ......_.... ............ ......... .......... _....... ............
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Data: 3/20/2001 ife-1
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UL MON RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF THE MIAMI RIVERsAY*PLAN BY THE MIAMI RIVER COMM SION.
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2.
MARINO DATE: Februmay 21, 2001
IM NO. Discussion Item #1"
VO'T'E: 5-0
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01- 440
Ti _WPORTATION PROJEC i ..*TUDIES
AND RESPONSIBILITIES
City of Miami Planning R Zoning Department
January 23, 2001
CURRENT/ONGOING STUDIES
• Downtown Transportation Master Plan (DTlvIP)
• Transportation Element of Miami Comprehensive Neighborhood Plan (%,VICNP)
• Long -Range Transportation Plan (I.RTP) 3023 Update
• Downtown Development of Regional Impact (DRI) Increment 11
• FEC Corridor Transportation Issues
• Brickell Area Transportation Issues/Plans
• Grand Avenue Reconfiguration Study
• N.E. 2 Avenue Reconstruction Project
_• Port of Nliami Tunnel _
• Miami River Navigation/Bridge Issues
CURRENT/ONGOING PROJECTS
• S.W. 7/8 Sts. Brickell to 1-93
• Port of Miami Interim Truck Access Plan
• 1-395 Reconstruction 1-95 to Biscayne Bay
• I-195 Improvements 1-95 to Biscayne Bay
• Biscayne Boulevard Reconstruction Projects
• DuPont Plaza Traffic Flow Revision Plan/TOPS application/funding
• Maintenance of Traffic (RIOT) Plan: S.W. ? Avenue Bridge Replacement
UPCOMING STUDIES/PROJECTS/APPLICATIONS
• FEC Railway Grade Separation/Tunnel Study
• Unified Planning Work Program (LPWP) — two studies
• Municipal Grants Program
• S.W. 7/8 Sts. 1-95 to S.W. 37 Ave.
• 1-95 Ramps to DuPont Plaza Reconstruction Study (Revival)
• Urban Transit Greenways studies
• Neighborhood Circulator Transit Studies
• Intercept Park ing/Do�% ntov% n Circulator Studies
• Taxicab Regulation Initiatives
• Vizcaya Station Area Development/Traffic Plan
• Miami Beach/Downtown Miami Li_ht Rail
• Marlins Ballpark Traffic'Parking Study
CON,rlNt11hG/ADVISORI'/COc)RU1NA1'IVF.
• Transportation Concurrency Reviews
• Traffic Study reviews for major developments
• Transportation Planning Council of the MPO (City of ?Miami representative)
• Station Area Development Review Committee (City, of Miami representative
• Lone -Range Transponation Plan 20=5 Update (I.RTP) Steering Committee (City of Miami
representative)
• Civic Center Transportation {Management Organization (CCTV10) Board of Directors (City of
Miami representative)
• Miami Intermodal Centef 001C) Implementation (City of Miami liaison)
01- 440
PLANNING PROJECTS, STUDIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES
CITY OF ML1.II PL_iNNI\G & ZONING DEPARTIE`'r
FEBRt.;R,v 1.1, 3001
CURRENT / ONGOING Sr:DMI;
• Bicentennial Park Planning Effort
• Miami River Master Plan Update / Infill Study
• little Haid, Wynwood, Edgewater Master Plans
• Commercial Zoning Revisions Study
• Residential Zoning Revisions Study
• Histonc-Neighborhood6-Research & !lapping
• Documentation of Potential Historic Districts
• Major Corridors Study
CURRENT / ONGOING PRQ1Ecrs
•
Community Revitalization District Projects (Model City, Lutle Haiti, W'ynwood)
•
FEC Corridor Initiative
• Miami Comprehensive Master Plan :Amendments /Miami 3000
• Consolidated Plan Implementation / .amendments / Environmental Reviews
• Histonc :Main Streets (Calle Ocho)
•
Upper Eastside Master Plan Implementation
• Design/Creole District Planning Study Implementation
• Downtown Master Plan Implementation
• Coconut Grove Planning Study Implementation
• Historic Folltlife Village Plan Implementation
•
Overtown Charrette Plan Implementation
• Special District Regulation Revisions (Design District, Biscayne Boulevard)
• New Special District / Conservation District Designations _.
UPCOMING S'rmws / PROJLCTti / APPLICATIONS
• Community Reviralizauon District Projects (Allapattah, Overtown, Coconut Grove,
Little Havana)
• Miami Neighborhoods Project
• Statistical .Atlases for all NET Districts
• University of Miami Medical Center Area Collaboration
• Master Plans for Allapattah, Coral Way, East Little Havana, %Fest Little Havana,
F'lagami, :Model Cin, and Overtown NET Districts
01- 440
PLANNING PROJECTS, STUDIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Cyn OF �IL1�II PLi.\NING & ZONING DEP.IRnIE\"T
FEBRUARY 14, 2001
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r. � ��t�IVi�,1�1UiNG /ADVISORY ! COORDlNATIYir ;� � '�
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• Community Redevelopment Area Coordinations
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Downtown Development Area.Coordination
Eastward Ho! Corridor Coordination
Empowerment Zone Coordination} r'
• Brownfields Redevelopment Program
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P bn 4��s=
a Historic Main Streets (Flagler, lv`W 3' Avenue) �
• Miami River Greenway Planning & Development
• Miami -Dade Count• Greenway Planning & Development
NVG' 79'h Street Corridor Initiative �y
w Miscellaneous Working Groups, for example: Alliance for Human _erste
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Miami River Greenway
Action Plan Executive Summary
Introduction/Overview
This draft Executive Summary for the Miami River Greenway Action Plan
provides a brief introduction and overview, of the project. The Miami Raver
Greenway Study Area consists of the easternmost 5.5 miles of the Nfiami River.
from the Salinity Dam located at approximately NW 36 Street and NW 40
Avenue, to the mouth of the River at Biscayne Bay. The Study Area consists of
those lands on both sides of the River. extending out approximately 2.500 feet
from the river at the longest point on either side. The land on both sides of the
Comfort Canal (also known as South Fork), Wagner Creek and the Tamiami
Canal extends out approximately 500 feet at the longest point on either side.
Althou,h the Miami Ri,,er is a short river, its history is lune. The Miami
River evolved over thousands of years from a tidal channel into a freshwater
stream that carried water from the Everglades to Biscayne Bay. The river is the
oldest natural landmark in southeast Florida. From 1909 to 1933 the river was
lengthened and widened. The famou; Miami rapids ceased in 1909 when the
Miami Canal wac built as part of the Everglades drainage project. Remnants of
the rapids can be seen at the City of,Nlianti's Paradise Point Park at NWr South
River Drive When dig_ing for toe Miami Canal began. the water table dropped
dramatically and l7verglades mink slid into the once clear waters of the river.
Concern over ensirunmental degradation. water pollution. bridge openings and
the generally unkept appearance of the Miami River has been voiced since the
1940s. in the early 1970s studies were undertaken by the Chamber of Com-
merce, the City of .\4iami, the Dude County Pollution Control Department, the
US Geological Survey, the Centrai and Southern
Flood Control District. the US Artm-C,)rps of Engi-
neers. Secretary of State Richard Stone's Office and
the Dade County Planning Advisory Board on the
deplorable conditions along and within the River. AS
a result there were code enforcement sweeps to clean
up. The 1976-86 Miami Comprehensive Neighbor-
hood Plan recognized the River as a special district
and stated that "the Miami River is a working river
and a major resource. It is presently underutilized and
offers many redevelopment opportunities". As we
enter the ? 1 st Century. the Miami River is beginning
to realise its potential as a mayor community resource
throw=h this Greenway Plan.
Miami River Greenway Executive Summary
01- 440
1 0
How this Plan was Prepared
This draft Action Plan has been prepared by Greenways Incorporated to
partnership with the Trust for Public Land and the Nliami River Commission.
Meaningful public involvement has been critically imponant in the preparation of
the draft Action Plan. Several methods have been used to solicit input from
Miami -Dade residents. First, numerous stakeholder
meetings have occurred between the consultant and
various interest groups; second, public worksessions +-
have been held at various locations throughout the
study area to provide residents with an opportunity to
view and comment on draft recommendations; third, a •
newsletter has been published several times provid-
ing an update of the planning process and draft
recommendations; fourth, a public opinion survey was "
distributed, collected and compiled to solicit specific —
information from the public. The following provides
a more detailed discussion for each of these methods
of public input. t `•, . ��,+ , `
Additionally, many prior and current planning
efforts have been summarized and incorporated into the development of this
Action Plan. These include previous master plans for the Miami River corridor,
as well as specific site development plans for public and private properties that
border the ri ver channel.
Currently, a full version of the Draft Action Plan has been distributed to
approtimately 75 individuals and organizations. Comments on the Draft Plan
will be received through the month of October 2000. The consultant team will
take all comments received and begin a full revision of the draft plan to Novem-
her. It is anticipated that the final plan will he made available to January 2001.
Characterization of the River
From the stakeholder meetings and an inventory of existing conditions, it is
apparent that a number of different themes exist within the Miami River Green-
way corridor. These river themes help to define the unique features, cultural
influences and physical conditions of the river. For other significant river
projects around the nation, river themes have helped to achieve a better under-
standing and long -teen support for project initixtivos. The following represent
the principal river greenway themes identified for the Miami River.
"The Miami River is Our Home"
The Miami River is home to a multi -cultural population. Currently, few
public gateways exist to encourage Wither visual or physical interaction with the
river. In fact local residents have become increasing isolated from this valuable
natural resource. A river greenway system would serve to reconnect the diverse
cultural and ethnic neighborhoods adjacent to the river to this important commu-
nity asset.
Miami River Greenway Executive Summary
01— 440
"The Miami River iso'orking River" 0
The Miami River is an international transfer point of cargo for a large
collection of shippers. The river's navigation and commercial shipping directly
generate 2 million tons of cargo each year with an
estimated value of more than S4 billion annually. The
river constitutes one of the largest employers in
downtown Miami. and most importantly offers a
ranee of jobs hard to find in other employment sectors
of the downtown area. The industrial complex along
the river has grown steadily during the past fifty
Years.
"The Miami River is a Destination
Landscape"
A destination landscape is one that serves as an
attraction for people and activity (i.e.. South Beach).
Destination landscapes generate a critical mass of
people. they are generally attractive landscapes and
they usually result in economic activity. The pro-
posed 'vliami River Greenway and the long standing Sliami Riverwalk are the
key elements to creating a successful destination landscape along the river. As
with other successful river landscapes throughout the nation. /Miami must under-
stand that a destination landscape is a blend of scenic attraction and robust
commerce.
"The Miami River is an Important Environmental Resource At Risk"
The %cord •'Miami" means sweet water, and for as lons as humans have
occupied the landscape. the Miami River has been an important source of water.
animal lite and plant life Lvcn though it is polluted today and supports a large
industrial marine use, the river ecosystem remains an important functional
element of the riverine landscape. The greenway can instill a new
stewardship ethic for this critically important resource. This can
be realized through a comprehensive river dredging and ,horeline
.tabih/ation prozram that would serve to remove contaminated
sediments from the river and reduce pollution loads in the tributar-
ies and main channel. With mutual support for both industrial and
recreational uses. and a renewed interest in stewardship and
conservation. the Miami River can continue to be a valuable
natural resource fir Miami and South Florida well into the 31st
Century .
e'
:Miami River Greenway Executive Summary Q i .,
00089
The NIiami River v is anonomic Resource" •
After intemationai trade, travel and tourism is the most important industr•y-
to the Greater, :Miami economy. Tire ;Miami Inver landscape has not realized the
full benefits of the tourism industry The River is quickly becoming a sought after
address for residential, commercial and retail development. While the "working
river" continues, to be the most significant eco-
nomic element of the river landscape, tourism and
higher property values will enrich this economic
base to make the river a major ecoronuc force in
the local economy. The river greenway system p�..
will further enhance this expansion of economic
activity. The greenway will make the river �* j
landscape accessible, attractive, and connected. Sl
which to turn will continue to increase the value
of property adjacent to the riverbanks.
"The Miami River is Part of Our Heritage"
The mouth of the Niiami River has been a -- y-"
focal point for human settlement and activity for
more than 2000 years. There are many important
sites and feature landscapes along the river that
should be identified and interpreted. Local
residents and visitors would gain a greater appre-
ciatinn for the significance of the river landscare throaeh these endeavors. The
Greenway can become a land use that supports the interpretation of this heritage.
providing pedestrian and water-based access to situ along the river corridor.
Summary of Key Recommendations
The Miami River Greenway development program consists of five key
element; 1 ) points of public entry to the river: _'i a primary system of public
trails and walkways: 3f tmprocementi and enhancements to existing parks: -41
improvements and enhancements to existing bridges and roadtivays. and 51
irnprovemeut5 and enhancements to ri%er channel banks.
lmprovernents to the River Channel _
First and foremost, the tiltarni River is scheduled to be dredged of excess
sediment . This project will be completed through a unique partnership between
the city of Miami, Miami -Dade County and the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Dredging will improve navigation and help to clean the river of debris Addition-
ally, it is recommended that river bank stabilization take place after river dred�: -
inL is complete. This will restore native trees and vegetation to portions of the
river shoreline, and create habitat for wildlife.
Points of Public Entry
Access to the Miami River will be unproved in several ways. First, public
parks along the river will be cleaned up and nzvv facilities will be added ss,► that
resident> and visiturs will have access to a linked system of trails and recreation
facilities. Additionally, neighborhood gateways will he added at key location;
along the 3.5 -mile river comdor. Algo. bridge improvements are scheduled to
take place in the coming years, improvinL pedestrian and bicycle access to the
Miami River Greenway iLixecurive Summitry 01— 440 4
1Ifflut
ricer corridor. It is also I*that some private lands will he redevelcoand
opened for limited public access and use.
System of Trails, Bikeways and Walkway's
Perhaps the most significant recommendation from this plan is the comple-
tion of a comprehensive network of trails. bikc!%%ay s and walkwtrys adjacent to
the river corridor. The Miami Riverwalk will be extended and completed within
the lower section of the river corridor, on both sides of the river from Biscayne
Bav to the Fifth Street bridge. This will offer residents and visitors an extensive
promenade (similar to the Malecon) alone the rivers, edge. West of Fifth Street.
and throughout the rest of the river corridor, a system of on -road hicycle facili-
ties, sidewalk improvements and off-road trails will weave through the existing
urban fabric adjacent to the river. Among the improvements will include the
Ovenown Safeualk, a bicycle and pedestrian corridor from the Winn Dixie
Supermarket at 12' Street to Biscayne Bay at Bicentennial
Park. I helm l system wi11 serve to connect people to the
river, and to destinations. neighborhoods and parks adjacent to
the river.
Cost of Facility Development
The improvements to the river corridor that are recom-
mended in this Action Plan will he accomplished over the
course of many years. It is e.,tirmated that the total cost of
these improvements will exceed S? million. A final cost
estimate has not yet been completed for all the improvements
that are recommended by the draft Action Plan.
Sources of Funding
Several sources of funding have been identified within the draft Action
Plan. This includes tundine from both public and private sector sources. Also
under consideration is the possible implementation of a spciiai Tax Increment
Financing Di.,trict for the river corridor. Under this TIF program. tax revenue
collected within the oyer corridor would he earmarked and uwd to fund the
improvements to the riper A> ecunumic values increase on the property adjacent
it. the river, so a ill the amount within the TIF fund. This will allow more I'm-
provements to he made over time.
Operation and Management Strategies
A key element in the future success of the Miami R�ivcr Greenway proiect
ck ill be the management and operation of the facilities along the 5.5 -mile
rjyerfront prcilect. A public opinion survey conducted by the consultant revealed
the preference of local residents to have a public private organization serve as
principal facilitator and coordinator of the Greenway. The Miami River Com-
mission is an existing urganizauon that might be capable of fulfilling the respon-
sibilities of coordinating the future development of the Greenway. Additionally.
the City of Miami, Miaini-Dade County and the State of Flcrida '6k ill play an
irnpurtant role in advancing the development and management of faciliue� along
the Nliami River. Finally, private property owners with property on the river will
pla) an important rule in the ,Uccessful rnanauement of Greenway facilities.
Miami River Greenway Executive Summary 5
01- 440
• •
How to Get Involved in the Greenway Project
If you arc interested in learning more about the Greenway project there are
several things you can do. The first is to attend one of the public worksessions
that will be held on November 8, 9 or 10. The second is to provide your written
comments to the Miami River Commission or the Trust for Public Land. Finallv.
for additional information. contact Lavinia Freeman. Program Manager at the
Trust for Public Land (305) 667-0409.
Miami River Greenway Executive Summary 6
01- 440
',5-19-2001 05 liar
��:
uveor of
Stale of Florida
Mr. Jeb Bush
Daitnee• Mr. James F. Murlev
:,OM-iAG,AR, AND PARKS P;
tiami
Chair of Mlarni-Dade Deievadon
Sen. Mario Diu-Baiart
Deugoae: Rep. GU'ravo Barreiro
Cbwr of Governing Board of
South Florida Water Managotneet
District
Mr Michael Colons
Designee: %It Gerardo Fernandez
Miami -Dade State Attorney
its. Katherine Fernandez -Rundle
Dosignee: Mr. Gary Winton
Mayor of Mtaml-Dada County
Mayor Alex Peaeias
Dcrignee::pis. Sandy O'Neil
Mayor of Miami
Mayor lex Camlle
Designee: Mc. Clsnctlnc Bahammde
City of Mtoed Cowndidoner
Cornrsttsionar Joe Saaehez
Designee: Ms. Eileen Damara
Mlam ii -Dade County
Committriorter
Couurussiort r Bruno Btureuo
ricyipee- .W. Alfredo Goomlez
Chair or Miami River Marine
Group
Mu Jim Brown
Designee. Mr. Richard Bunnell
Chair of .mange Council
Mr. Phil L'vetingho:a
7esigncc. Mt. rohn walliogwn
Executive Director of Downtown
Devokpwnt Authority
Ms. Patti Allen
Designee. Mr. Alonso Menendez
Uair of Greater Miand Chamber
of Commeme
Mt. William o. Cullom
Designee: Mr. Imes McDonald
Neighborhood Representative
Appointed by City of "turd
Com Lion
t)r. Ernest Martin
Designee- Ms. Virginia Newcll
Neighborhued Representative
Appointed by Miami -Dade
Commission
Ms. sallyc 3ude
Designee: Ms, Time Capoteili
Re preentative from
Environmental or Civic
orgutizabon Appointed by the
Governor
Ms. Tenet McAuley
Designee: Mt. Theo Long
Member at Large Appointed by
the Governor
W. Robot t Parts
Member at Larp Appointed by
Miarai-Dade Comrnlsslon
Ms. Sara Babun
Destenee: Mr. Tom P"m
Member arc Appointed by
City of Miami omnusaion
Mr Cleve )ones
nes:gnee: Mr W':lliarr, Paries
Islanaptig Director
'ptatn David Millet
3C54461'54 r-u5C P CGT F-920
River Otmmis i
son
Honorable Commissioner Johnny Winton
City Hall
3500 Pan American Drive
Miami, FL 33133
Dear Coln uissiouer Winton,
c/o Roseasliel School
Atrium A
4600 Rickeubacicer Causeway
Mlami, Florida 33149
(Mice: (305) 361.4850
Fax: (305) 361-4911
May 9, 2001
This letter serves as the Miami River Commission's "afeial
statement" to the City Conunission, requested in Resolution 00-320,
regarding May 10 City Commission agenda items pertaining to the
Miami Rivet.
PZ -1) "Resolution (J-01-206) To Approve the Miami River
Greenway Plan". The Miami River Commission recommends
approval of P7_-1. approving The Miami River Greenway Action Plan.
L-Qne of the Mitlmi River Commissions top priorities is to develop a
continuous Greenway and Rivenvalk system in the Miami River
corridor. Historically, the publio has been isolated from the Miami
River, and the Greonway would reconnect them to this valuable -
community resource. As clearly shown by the success of the Fort
Lauderdale, Chattanooga, as *San Antonio, and other city riverwalks,
the Miami riverwalk will attract residents and tourists, creating a
critical mass of activity along the Miami River's do%N ntown shoreline.
The kliami River and Greenway will become a destination landscape,
creating reoccurring revenues to the City of Miami with adjoining
businesses, such as cafes, restaurants and fresh fish markets. The
Gretmway will connect and unite the multi -cultural neighborhoods
around the Miami River, such as East Little Havana, Overtown,
Downtown, etc. The Miami River Commission and the Trust for
Public Land contracted Greenway's, Inc. to prepare the Nilarni P,iver
Greenway Action Plan, before you today.
Enclosed are the unanimous recommendations to approve the Miami
River Greenway Action Plan from your Planlung, Urban Design
Review, Waterfront, Parks, and Histone and Environmental
Preservation Advisory Boards.
Submitted into VIC public
1'eCord in Conilekk11on with
item ?1_._ on ti I
Walter Foeman Of- 440
City Cleric
0"I -2001 06:27vm From -HAGGARD AND PARKS PA 305"61151 T -63C P-003/013 F-020
MO
lai& River Comjssion
Chair,
MiwM River Commission
L
f y
fy � LLt 6� SX YkR
dr f k _i, Yy i 'w � t,
t" x , d
j
tt' Y at�`.fia '�. a¢"`��;t,Es� ,N_, �' m}s•'�r �q�r'
�i>tdlMd into tha public
w
ciw
01- 440
C- i Y CF ),I:, AM:
Sew'.
ALBEIT0 RMER
CR. SIZORY sah MR -RC -70P. OF PAS
KjQt .+,SIC CRUZ
ROBF:TF? a�EtS 305-41&1,3,20
SAM JOHNSON
SALLYEXCE
JOS w %XzgS
RV—SOLL71ON NO, 2011
WHEREAS. selerai CIty of Miami parks are located 4a and near the Miami River at many
locatiods ; and
WHEREAS, the Miami River is an important environmental res4ures and center for the
future development of commercial. residential and retail activity impacting the economic
base of the community.
ass
as defined In the Action Plan.
PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS 21st DAY OF Febroary ,2001
the
3•
t»tt>tirla�ut ottbe r+3
'%"' tad Into th* public
racot�i� �e;b lvwith
ftm Waiter Forman
DUARi'NILST OF P %X),3 ANC RECREATION City Clark
t'i'tL't7F �tt.«tt..ttt,t�it kivVIR.4ipECENTIM,4 i&%',:`*AVE.N116.AmFI.004LULOttt. FL.3130
01- 440
• 0
Waterfront Advisory Board
Nlinutes of Meeting of March 13, 2001
Members Present M
Smber.1 Absent
John Brennan Veal NfcAliley Vanessa Acosta
Genzalo Dial Robert Parente Jack King
Paul George Stuart Sorg James Wellington
Ernie Martin Amado Luis Valdes
City of Miami Staff Present
Lori Billberry, Director, Office of Asset Management
Stephen Bogner, Marinas Manager, Miamarina at Bayside
Ana Gclabert-Sanchez, Director, Planning & Zoning Department
Dianne Johnson, Sr. Development Coordinator, Real Estate & Economic Development
Yvonne Page, Liaison, Waterfront Advisory Board
ilaydec Regucyra, Administrator, NE Coconut Grove NET
Frank K. Rollason, AsAstant City :Manager
James 11. Villacona, Assistant City Attorney
The Waterfront Advisory Board (" WAB") of the City of Miami met on Tuesday, March 13,
2001 in the City Commission Chambers, 3500 Pan American Drive, Miami, Florida. Chairman
Robert Parentc called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. and welcomed Board members, City staff
and the public. Mr. Parente requested that he be provided with a record of the members'
attendance. The minutes of the February 13, 2001 meeting were approved unanimously.
WAIS Award - Mr. Parente announced that he plans to initiate an Award to be presented by the
Board in recognition of an individual's efforts to improve the waterfront, provide outstanding
serve to the public, or take action which benefits the community.
Coconut Grove Redevelopment - Ana Gclabert-Sanchez reported that an updated PowerPoint
presentation is being prepared, and will be presented at a community meeting. Mr. Parente
invited her to use a WAIS meeting to facilitate the community meeting. Ms. Gelabert-Sanchez
stated that the presentation to the Board might be on track for May. She will keep the Board
apprised, and provide a written copy to the Board prior to the presentation.
Grove Harbour - Antonio Zamora reviewed the history of'previous development plans, and
outlined the present challenges, including the substantial cost of restoring the hangars. In order
to meet the required payments to the City of $300,000 for the first five years, increasing to
$550,000 in year six, the other components must generate sufficient revenues. lie acknowledged
the importance of a working boatyard to the boating community, and outlined the plans for the
boatyard, the 89 wet slips and the indoor dry stack facility for 148 boats.
Submitted Into MID public
r1scOr4,0 connoullj n with
item ot? oL UO_
Walter Foeman
City Clerk
01- 440
Bicentennial Park - ivir. Parente mcouragud evervcne to uttend the Citv Commission meeting
on Thursday. March 15" � at 2:00 p.m. at the \rtime Center. at which time the City's
recommendations for a downtown Site for the baseball stadium viil be discussed. Paul George
relaved a message frotn Crcg Bush. of the fiiccntennial Park Water-ront Renewal Comntittec,
cxpressing his appreciation for the Board's support in their efforts.
Dinner Key Marina/Coconut Grove Convention Center - .John Brennan introduced several
issues for discussion:
• The Dockmastcr's Office Facilities at Dinner Key Marina needs Te be expanded to enable
first-class services to be provided to the tenants at the marina.
• There are a larbc number of people in the community who are interested in locating an ice
skating area at Coconut Grove Convention Center, to provide a site for an ice hockey
league f'ur young people.
• The possibility of constructing a parking garage on the Convention Center site to alleviate
the constant and continuing lack of parking space.
The Board discussed these items and asked Mr. Brennan to elaborate on these ideas so the Board
could consider thein in the framework of how they tic into the redevelopment plans the City is
now studying.
Dredging - Discussion centered on the need for dredging in the Dinner Key area, and whether
the City has a policy for dredging as a continuing capital expense or maintenance item. Stephen
Bogner explained that Facility Managers are in the process of projecting capital improvement
projects for ten, liftecn and twenty years, and the City is studying public financing for same.
Miami River GreenwayAction Plun - Mr. Martin briefly reviewed the Miami River
Greenway Action Plan, which is the culmination of a two-year, grass roots effort with the goals
of protecting the existing waterfront, creating new waterfront, improving public access to the
River. stimulating cconumcc development, and enhancing reem-ational and cultural opportwtitics.
Mr. Martin introduced Brett Bibeau, Assistant Manager of the Miami River Commission, who
stated the City Commission will he asked to adopt this Plan at their April 12"' meeting.
Mr. McAlilcy commended Mr. Martin and Ivlr. Bibeau and the Miami River Commission for
their outstanding efforts, and noted that the Plan is one of the most significant actions he has
seen regarding the Miami waterfront. Motion No. 2 - Mr. Sorg moved that the Waterfront
Advisory Board recommend that the Miami River Greenway Action phin be adopted by
thrOty Commission. Amado Luis Valdes seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously.
Motion .# 3. Mr. McAliley inoved that the Waterfront Advisory Board rccomn,Mnd that,
upon approval of the Miami River Greenway Action Plan. the City Commission direct Cid
_stuff to provide a written statement of the effect on the Plan when future items are
proposed for the affected areas. Mr. Martin seconded the notion anilt pa sed unanimously.
Submitted int)
I, t"i"t public
record //��J/„��/�ls�V .�:iL tel!"j'a with
ltert't
V� on _J�b�-
Walter t at:man
city Cletic
01- 440
a•' Fti : ;� -?x.11^fit i13y. �` so171 �G:lj='�=i,r
-
a
City of Miami
PLANNING ADVISORT BOARD HISUTZS
February 21, 2001
3. Consideration of amending Article 6 of Zuming Ordinanea 11000.
?AB 21 -Cl
No.: 2000-071 Applicant: C:'ty of Miami ?fawning and inning Doparmmt
Becva�eaded
Approval Consl&nation of amending Ctdkumv 11000, as amended. the Zoning Ordbums of the City of Miami,
Florida, by amending Article 6, Section 613 in order to allow flower caro as a conditional accessory
By a vote of: tree in SD -13 S.W. 274 Avenue Gateway Distract. (Continued from the PAR hearings of October Ia.
6-0 2000; November 15, 2000; December 13, 2000 and January 31, 3001).
4. Consideration of amending the Miami City Code.
PAS 22-01
Recommmded No.: 2000-003 Applicant: City of Miami Planning and Zonhp Department
Approval
Consideration of amending the Miami City Coda. as amen• by amending. Section 10-22 in
By a vote Of: order to allow exceptions to the Appearance Code for the Media District -
6 -0
DIMUSION ITEMS.
PAR 23-01
Presentation of thofarm River Greennray Plan by the Miami River Com ni=alon.
APProvxl
Vote:. 5-0 2. update_ on the Downtown Tranaporution :►faster Pian and othcr eo spreheaelve
planning issues.
214101
Submitted Into thR Public
record In comm- tt n Vrlkh
ilta�+on -1jj0-fi-L-
Walter Fc)crnctn
city clow.
CITY OF MIAMI • PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMEN''7
♦sa $W :!NQ AV 4V9. V" FLOOR • MIAW PWRIOA- 33-130 PHONE (305) 416.1.ur0
ot- 440