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A REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE MIAMI E7 OMMlSIO1 ON THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIX I CIS PAR 'ubmitted by: e ity of Miami Virginia Key $e s Task Force 99 2000 77 -•. R k `Jl 7♦rEa• n „ II`CN7a� .' ..-.-i r �F '. 1. ^ a♦,: ( ..i _ _ r rk i 40 Table of Contents I. Mission Statement II. Executive Summary III. A Brief Historical Overview from 1896 IV. Background and purpose of the Virginia Key Civil Rights Task Force V. Resolutions and Proclamations VI. The Design Charrette as a Concensus Building Process VII. The `Charrette' Design Team I Nature and the Environment A Design Team II Beach Park Land -use Masterplan Compatible Cultural & Recreational Uses Design Team III Commemoration of the Place (Similar Sites) Design Team IV Historic Significance and Historic Preservation VIII. Task Force Recommendations IX. Phase I -Start-up Operational Costs and Financing X. Phase II - Long Term Capital Costs and Financing March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force TABLE OF CONTENTS MISSION STATEMENT Our Mission........ is to create a vision for the development and use of Virginia Key Beach Park, promoting and maintaining absolute public ownership and unrestricted access, preserving it as a valuable resource to be enjoyed for posterity and to honor the rich historical legacy of the social and civil rights history of South Florida Submitted into the public record in connection with item G on 2 -2-00 Walter Foeman City Clerk THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 00- 220 �1 t' Hisotric aerial photo of Virginia Key Beach Current view of the Beach, looking toward the abandoned merry-go- round the P°b1ic fitted Int° °With Subfecotd in 0001 3� ��0 item �� Waiter F°emat� G►tY �1etk March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Executive Summary The Virginia Key Civil Rights Task Force appointed by the City of Miami Commission, executes its responsibilities as designated by the resolution under which it was established, and in its report, make the following recommendations to the Commission. As prescribed by the establishing resolution, this Task force has conducted public meeting in accor- dance with the Sunshine Law. Accordingly, the chair has guided its volunteers in tasks to inform, edu- cate and involve the citizens of Miami, Florida in dialogue about future development of the Virginia Key Beach Park. As outlined in this report, the vision for this 77 acre property used as a guide the natural ecological and environmental conditions, historic preservation and Civil Rights issues, existing conditions, preliminary engineering and architectural concerns for restoration, as well as the economics of financing a plan for future development. The City of Miami Virginia Key Park Civil Rights Task Force makes the following recommendations for consideration and adoption by the City of Miami Commission: Reaffirm the Principle of Public Ownership of Virginia Key Beach Reopen the beach and park Continue the work of the Virginia Key Beach Task Force Preservation -Stabilization Implementation and Planning: Phase One Year One: April 2000 - April 2001 Support the project planning and land use concepts as recommended by the Virginia Key Beach Park Task Force Support the development of a phase-in plan to include the preservation and restoration of all historic structures and the development of a world class Civil Rights Historical Museum Support the preparation of a multi-year financing plan as initiated by the Virginia Key Task Force The task force has begun the process of identifying potential sources of financing, some from existing budget allocations, and have begun to explore other sources of funding from local, state and federal levels. We have secured support from elected officials to assist us in identifying appropriate government grants including: THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK �► 2U March 9, 2000 9 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Already Funded: Department of Environmental Resource Management (DERM) - Will provide expertise and personnel (Gary Milano) for the restoration of native species - already underway in other areas of island. $500,000 from Safe Neighborhood bond funds initially earmarked for a Nature center. $1,000,000 from Safe Neighborhood bond funds, portions of can be used for beach renourishment County Funding: Commissioner Jimmy Morales (the park is in his District 2) has committed his sup- port. Federal Funding: Representative Carrie Meek has committed her support for future plans. Virginia Key Task Force: Has submitted an application for $25,000 from the State of Florida. For each of the support categories indicated, whether in kind or funds, matching funds can be applied for at the state and federal levels. Submitted into the public record inc one3°n vvith0 item Walter Foeman City Clerk The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 00- 22" 0 a 0 Background & Purpose of the Virginia Key Task Force Virginia Key Beach Park, once known as "Old County Park" is considered to be a rare jewel of near pristine, prime, publicly owned real estate with a precious environmentally sensitive natural environ- ment. It is a unique coastal natural treasure for all of the diverse populations of South Florida and visitors to enjoy for posterity. For thousands of South Florida citizens, particularly of African American descent, Virginia Key holds a significant place in the civil rights history of the community. It was once the home of Dade County's "First Negro Beach"; so designated by segregationist laws, and designed for the exclusive use of the colored population of South Florida. This came after several years of pleadings by members of the African American community for a beach where they could enjoy the incredible South Florida waters and environment, as the white community enjoyed in other more preferable locales along the coast. For many, Virginia Key Beach Park symbolizes the past pain and indignities of second class citizen- ship, racial exclusion and segregation suffered by a segment of the community . It is also a symbol of the courage of thousands of African Americans who risked their lives struggling against racial hatred and oppression and second class citizenship to make unprecedented progress and strides in achieving racial justice and equality in South Florida, as well as throughout the United States of America. Today, it now serves as a memorial to America's progress in racial justice, reconciliation, and equali- ty. It serves as a reminder of the sordid past, but more importantly, it now serves as a modern day symbol of progress for our diverse, multi- ethnic, multi -cultural community. It should stand as a liv- ing memorial to recognize the varied contributions made by the African American community in the formation and building of our community. Virginia Key is also renowned for another reason. It is considered to be one of the last parcels of valu- able, publicly owned land located in a urban area of Miami -Dade County. Seg°cd `( yaNa\\elG G\�c WOO y March 9, 2000 From left to right: Mrs. E. Thomas, Mrs. A. Range and Congresswoman C. Meek The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force • BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Mrs. A. Range and Congresswoman C. Meek Indeed, it has become a tropical paradise, with beautiful waterfront views, lush greenery, extensive planting of native trees and plants which rivals any tropical garden park in the United States. The island has been likened to an untapped, underused, and neglected tropical "crown jewel" located in the City of Miami. Unfortunately, the fate and future of Virginia Key Beach park is in serious jeopardy, and could become yet another example of prime publicly owned property being exploited for commercial development. Even with its rich history, legacy, and potential benefits to the quality of life for the residents of Miami and its surrounds, the future of Virginia Key Beach Park remains in jeopardy and threatened with possibilities of being lost to private development and exploitation, at the expense of the public good. As a result of a severe financial crisis in the city during recent years, the city developed a financial recovery plan that included soliciting Requests for Proposals to private developers to develop Virginia Key, Dinner Key, Watson Island, as well as other properties owned by the city. This action was taken even after a November 8, 1995 vote of the citizenry to reject a previous plan for a campground on Virginia Key. With this threat of losing a part of the rich history and legacy of the area and the imminent loss of any opportunity to preserve and fully enjoy this pristine gift of nature, a citizens initiative was formed to study and explore the possibilities of saving this jewel for posterity. Upon hearing of the possibilities of Virginia Key Beach Park being turned over to private developers, a group of citizens, led by Mrs. M. Athalie Range, one of our community's esteemed leaders and the first African-American commissioner in the City of Miami, stepped forward to voice concern about the prospect of losing such a valuable piece of the rich history and natural environment of South Florida. THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK P.E , 1r) . �,0 �-��4 1 "'�""�"e-. - . 4 �.. ' �'- X74• _ _ .ca COONTT LIM 7 113 oaaa, sopa. ehl. oar .f . YKwt'w he" e0Y4t7. • rotlueal avbat}xstan of cne State of news". party of Us M., Part. And cm W MAX1, a sum.i Pal esrpantlea, P4rtr C tae so-" Part, WITS: TkaT Me, sold partr of thr rL"t Part. rer ute 11%MweLeaealiah or th. aw 1r on. nollar 01. 63 bad other low one ralaalf cenelatraslaw to -t1 1n atµ paid 10 tts.payty of Use 400"d part. ro-irc .Iwrear 1. 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TM: ati.tr:r:lan. erc li a'alr:r t, an ennwst re•rlw by the-ce,.aty n4naa.r ar ht.--tMa.lr.nr..s- TNls f,f.nc �es.�.ys �n hr :helntlrw.e or LRe r, •+racy .rW Sct Seard at :aunty cary.S..San•r+ Se tat prap•rt, n.rrin dr.Cribed. And lhStl "t tin orcnee to -9"4nt tn. 1,1:1r ar ta roprvcrnt toy date of fere. eoncernl..{r th• a-, II Copy of County Deed of Park to Cinof Miami 11 1 Submitted into theP ublic record in connec on with item C. on ->-q- cJ Walter Foeman City Cleric March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE After voicing concerns to the Commissioners of the City of Miami, on June 8, 1999, the commission in its wisdom, responded with a resolution forming a citizen's Task Force to advise and make recom- mendations related to the future of Virginia Key Park. Further, the resolution, sponsored by Commissioner Arthur E. Teele, Jr. pursuant to a previous action (Motion 99-320) directed the City Manager not to issue any Requests for Proposals or engage in planning and development activities until the Task Force has completed its work and presented its report to the commission. Soon after the commission's action, Mrs. Range was joined by several other outstanding citizens who were appointed to the Task Force. Additionally, a broad spectrum of private citizens, including busi- ness men and women, preservationists, historians, environmentalists, educators, and other volunteers and supporters joined the effort and began the work of exploring possibilities for Virginia Key's future. The Virginia Key Task Force has sponsored numerous public meetings, group presentations and forums to educate the community and solicit ideas from the general public as to the future of the key. The Task Force has conducted extensive research of the history of the land, investigated several environmental studies and reports, explored previous development proposals and solicited the input of environmentalists, educators and indeed hun- dreds of concerned citizens. The Task Force has sponsored field trips, and encouraged other groups and organizations to utilize this "hidden treasure". The response to the mission of the Task Force has been overwhelmingly positive. This body, under the direction of Architect Clyde Judson and coordinated by Consultant Patricia Ford, mobilized volunteers in coordinated work efforts which produced a well received Public Charette. A Design Team of prominent architects and planners mobilized for nearly three days in an environment designed to translate the shared ideas from a broad-based representation of the public into graphic visions for this beach and park property. This Task Force and the Citizens of Miami, Florida ask that Virginia Key Beach Park, now dubbed "The Aqua Pearl" be preserved exclusively for public use with unrestricted public access. We ask that its Civil Rights history be commemorated by archiving artifact and memorabilia in a Virginia Key Beach museum. We ask that the land which offers enormous natural benefits and historic structures be restored to its previous grandeur. We ask that the City of Miami prepare a capital funding plan to ensure the implementation of all of the envisioned capital improvements and we ask that the City of Miami keep in place this Virginia Key Civil Rights Task Force as a vested partner to help shepherd to completion the long term project that will benefit all people of Miami and enrich the entire South Florida region. THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK Gtr- 2w0 RESOLUTIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS Submitted into the public record ioonec3 n �u item Walter Foeman Vwj.i City Clerk March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 00` 220 11 If 11 11 11 11 11 11 IMarch 9, 2000 Submitted into the public record in connection with item G on 3 ~ -Uo Walter Foeman City Clerk The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force RESOLUTIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS I'IIF CITY OF \II.\\II, FLORIDA 'Whereas. • in 19as 'Vbyium lkacti uvea deaignated as a Dade county lark. and'Ih. trtrgttrw �7 aari�C'ntl lfyglits 7atk Farre wm rstabfufiedan jure 3tfi 1999 at the :kianri City Cbmn MM : ana `Whereas: `7fwtr nntuwt tt to mate a tzmim }irr the detsfopment and ust of f-i'rgrnw Y ey drtch Park, ptowottng and matntarmng afmvdiute ,rumm,hip and unrestrwrted .tccess, pmsertittg rt as a 1maAk aatura( asatt and rtwrurte to & rnhnrd jur p�utcrtrr and to honor the .RCh liuronca( lerlac?' of the soave( and cnaf nghts 1lutory ol.iorlh FGrnd�t: and 'YY/!KWS. T& .:trmnxxtry rWTed to Atte ,hu liutont jvnr hootng iteral pr6ficmrrnngx snd (umnyyattirmw se wits where putihc pant rctntstc. atittmm�menfa&,tc and4&%hPnc prcmmationrurs w Ofd toWificr ;Ivb,w, •nterefvrr: 1, ,toe C'arnt7o. wavtw. rxf the City .rf :Kwmr, rrntd;t, 10 herehv prac.Lum January 159&- AM) 77te 740i-a_7Cey %wh Tark Thy 1 n Observance Thewf:I call aptm id ,tistuents of aie ( Yty o,/ kwon to Mtn me rn [lir;e4 6twum ,rf tlia rwpnRdnt ,k::J370n. In 'Wtfne.SS 10iert0f 1 heMttnttr .xt nn' 'iand.tnd .•ause the seal of the CYty of- to he iffi d -Done: i it the otfixe of the mavor of tie f ftv of :kiamt; rforiaa. /anuar_v 13. Z(XNJ THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 0 ` Z r+r U Li I , 1 1-1 I I I I THE DESIGN CHARRETTE AS A CONCENSUS BUILDING PROCESS THE DESIGN CHARETTE AS A CONCENSUS BUILDING PROCESS Virginia Key is an island with many natural components that serve to define what the best use of its resources would be. Such components include its coastal and hardwood hammocks and its critical wildlife area preserve, to name a few. The island also attracts many users and activities that include recreational beach and park activities, educational and research facilities and commercial activities. The island also has affiliated with it vari- ous interest groups including the African American community, who currently use the island for recre- ation and the citizens of the Village of Key Biscayne, along with environmental advocacy groups and historians. To that end, the Virginia Key Park Civil Rights Task Force concluded that the best way to determine it's optimum land use was through the process of a Design Charette. This intensive design workshop involved people of all ethnicities, backgrounds and persuasions who worked together to reached a con- sensus on the proposed design concept. Submitted into the public record in connection with item on 3 -L 0 Walter Foeman City Clerk March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force The participants concluded that the goals of the Virginia Key Beach Park Design Charette should be to: A. Evaluate and understand the existing natural and man-made conditions. B. Research and document the social and historical significance of the creation of the beach and its relationship to the civil rights struggles and the need for commemoration of that experience. C. Explore and examine various activities and land -uses to determine those which are compatible with the island as a whole. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DESIGN CHARETTE: A. There was broad community representation and participation, which included various ethnic, cultural and racial groups, several elected and appointed government officials representing the City of Miami, Miami -Dade County, the Village of Key Biscayne, and the federal government, high school, college and university students, professionals, and private citizens representing grass roots organiza- tions. B. There was clear identification of significant historic influences, environmental issues and social concerns. C. There were numerous highly qualified professionals present, representing architectural design, landscape design, planners, environmentalists, historians, educators, biologists, botanists and economic development specialists. D. There was a highly charged atmosphere that evoked creativity and synergy, resulting in a nearly unanimous consensus and agreement about the current and future land -use of Virginia Key Beach Park. THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK THE CHARRETTE The charrette was organized around four areas of study, concerns, and design disciplines: A. Nature, the ecological system, and landscape architecture. B. Commemoration of the historic civil rights movement. C. Preservation, restoration and renovation of the existing structures. D. Compatible activities and land -uses. A series of lectures and presentations included: A. Financial opportunities, challenges and economic feasibility. B. The natural environment and the possible impact of development. C. Existing conditions of physical facilities. D. A 1984 Master Plan and other previous development proposals and outcomes. Resulting design concepts included: A. Developing a regional network of aquatic links with other waterfront properties, with Virginia Key as the centerpiece crown jewel, the "Aqua Pearl". This concept would seek to preserve and enhance the rich and diverse natural and cultural heritage of Biscayne Bay. B. Based upon the various modes of human mobility that would be used to connect different expe- riences and activities at Virginia Key, a continuum of interactive and interpretive experiences that edu- cate its participants, both in regards to the natural environment and the history of the place, would be employed tC. From the many suggested activities and land -uses proposed, the consensus of the group was that they all could be categorized into four desired experiences which are: 1. The natural environmental experience. 2. The historic and civil rights experience. 3. The beach -park recreational experience. 4. The beach -park cultural experience. March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force t] THE CHARRETTE DESIGN CHARRETTE RECOMMENDATIONS 1. Initiate and develop policies that create the "Blue Necklace". a. Foster regional relationships with National Park Service, the state of Florida, Miami -Dade County, and other municipalities with waterfront parks and open spaces. b. Preserve and restore Virginia Key as a natural environment enhancing the island as the "Aqua Pearl". 2. Implement the necessary land -use regulations to create the following five compatible master plan land uses. a. A Nature Preserve As technology permits, abandon the existing sewage plant and reclaim this land and add it to the pres- ent nature preserve. i. Remediate the environmental hazards at the landfill as wetlands... ii. Restore the tidal flows in Lostman's Creek. iii. Remove exotic vegetation and re -vegetate spoil areas with indigenous plant species. Submitted into the public record in connection with item on Walter Foeman City Clerk , THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 60- 220 11 i ' b. A Conservation Zone i. Provide a natural buffer zone between the nature preserve and the active recreation area (the beach -park). c. Beach Park ar i. Create an active recreation area in the existing beach park. d. Public Beach i. Reclaim and replenish the Atlantic coast beach section of the island as a public beach ii. Restore the natural communities of the beach dune, the coastal strand and maritime ham mock. e. Transportation Corridor i. Enhance the existing Rickenbacker transportation corridor through improved modes of transportation. ii. Limit commercial, educational, and institutional development to the corridor. iii. Develop a mass transit systems that maximizes the use of existing large parking areas, consequently minimizing the use of natural areas for vehicular parking. 3. Design accommodations to provide opportunities for interactive nature experiences such as: a. Environmental Art b. Youth nature exploration and education visits c. The use of various modes of transportation such as nature trails, observation platforms and board walks d. Fishing ponds March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force r • 4. Create a living museum with interior and exterior exhibits commemorating the history and continual civil rights movement to include: a. A museum gallery b. The use of various modes of transportation for interpretive exhibits such as trams with computer and video images, historic trails and pathways c. The creation of a sculpture garden with interpretive historic art d. Provision for meditative spaces such as gazebos and reflecting ponds v. Restoration and replication of historic buildings to be part of the historic exhibit 5. Provide facilities and spaces for traditional beach park recreational activities such as: a. Open-field meadow for athletic games b. An educational and sculptural children's interactive playground c. A swimming area 6. Provide a natural environment for cultural events such as: a. Concerts, dances, outdoor theater, arts and crafts festivals, lectures, environmental art, etc. Submitted into the public record in connection with item (' _ on_ �. _ 0 0 Walter Foeman City Clerk THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK a 1 1 n [1 It u Submitted into the public recor=on3_:�—<D-a nnection with Regional view of the `String of Pearls,' including Virginia Key item Walter Foeman it City Clerk March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM I - NATURE AND THE ENVIRONMENT Design TeamMembers: Juan Antonio Bueno, ASLA, Team Leader Elisabeth Baron Laura Brinkley Karen Cheney, ASLA Paula Crouthamel, ASLA Gianno Feoli Thai -Hien Nguyen Juan Ramon Pacheco Gustavo Santana A String of Pearls for Biscayne Bay The pivotal location of Virginia Key offers the opportunity to interpret and manifest the diverse natural and cultural heritage of Biscayne Bay through a network of aqualinksa String of Pearls—for our com- munity to enjoy. It is proposed that the network of aqualinks be developed to connect the waterfront resources of Biscayne Bay. The network would link the ecological, historical, and recreational sites of the bay from the Oleta River State Recreation Area on the north to the Biscayne National Park Visitors Center at Convoy Point on the south. The String of Pearls would be anchored at Virginia Key—its Aqua Pearl. Along the islands, for example, Indian Creek, Cape Florida, and Elliott Key would all be linked. Along the mainland, for instance, sites on Little River, the Miami River, Snapper Creek, and Black Creek would be interconnected. Historic sites, such as the Circle at Brickell Park, Vizcaya Museum and Garden, the Barnacle, Miami -Biltmore Hotel, and Charles Deering Estate, would be accessible by water from Miami to Perrine. Visitors would go from shopping at the Bayside Market Place in Downtown Miami to viewing an exhibi- tion at Dinner Key in Coconut Grove by boat or water taxi. THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK V10- U 11 n 11 Trailheads at existing facilities like Pelican Harbor Park and Marina, Bicentennial Park, Alice Wainwright Park, Kennedy Park, Matheson Hammock Park and Marina, Chapman Field Park, and Homestead Bayfront Park would enhance the recreational opportunities of the network. The network of aqualinks would also enhance the appreciation for the marine and estuarine ecology of Biscayne Bay with the opportunity for wildlife observation at natural areas such as Bear Cut Preserve, R. Hardy Matheson Preserve, Chicken Key, and the Cutler Wetlands. In addition, the network would connect directly to the Florida Greenways and Trails System through the Intercoastal Waterway. The aqualinks would also complement the proposed South Dade Blueways, which connect the Coral Gables Waterway to the Biscayne National Park Visitors Center along the peninsular coastline of southern Biscayne Bay. These links, together with the loops in the network, would augment user opportunities with enhanced cir- culation and multiple -use options along the String of Pearls. A Vision for Virginia Key The vision for Virginia Key foresees five compatible land uses within the Atlantic coast barrier island: nature preserve, conservation zone, beach park, public beach, and transportation corridor. Nature preserve No vision for Virginia Key should ignore its ecological significance for Biscayne Bay. The ecological efforts would include preservation, conservation, restoration, and reclamation within an expanded marine and estuarine preserve on the northwest sector of the island. The extant fragments of tidal wetlands as well as the remnant algal and seagrass beds would be main- tained to preserve the ecological integrity of these crucial habitats for permanent and transient wildlife. Particularly, the interior habitat structure and tidal flow function of the mangrove would be preserved within the barrier island. March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM I - NATURE AND THE ENVIRONMENT Land -use map produced by Design Team I Key: Red CommerciallEducational/Institutional Apple Green Recreational Forest Green Conservation Zone Olive Green Nature Preserve Blue Water/Lagoon Brown Beach/Dune/Strand Submitted into record . the Public item connection —� on With Walter F� G n THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEYC PARK •0 X40 a 1 • i I ' ' Also addressed within the preserve would be the reclamation of the landfills as wetlands and the restora- tion of tidal flows in Lostman's Creek. These wetlands would eventually include the waste water treat- ment plant. Conservation efforts would comprise the removal of exotic vegetation and the revegetation of spoil areas with native plants within the mangroves. Species typical of coastal berms and shell mounds would be used to avoid the siltation of tidal waters that may result from the removal of fill material. i Conservation zone A conservation buffer zone would be created to separate the nature preserve from the beach park. Exotic vegetation would be eradicated and tidal flows would be reestablished under the roadways to reclaim the disturbed lands as lakes and wetlands for passive recreation use. Beach park 11 Virginia Key Beach Park would provide the opportunities for active recreation—a place where nature and culture can be appreciated through cultural events and recreational activities. Public Beach The Atlantic coast of the island would be reclaimed as a public beach. The beach would be replenished with sand; and the uplands would be cleared of exotic vegetation and replanted to restore the natural com- munities of the beach dune, coastal strand, and maritime hammock. Transportation Corridor The existing transportation corridor along the Rickenbacker Causeway would be maintained for recre- ational, educational, and institutional land uses. The corridor would provide pedestrian and vehicular access, including walking, jogging, and riding opportunities, to the various facilities. Mass transit would connect to access hubs along the corridor. March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM I - NATURE AND THE ENVIRONMENT Current view of Virginia Key Beach area Submitted into the public record in connection with item_ on _2L_eL--6v Walter Foeman City Clerk THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK G®- `�2U J MA , ITW( Historic photo of picnic area at Virginia Key Beach Submitted into the public recor=on nnection with item Walter Foeman City Clerk March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force • THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM H - BEACH PARK LAND- USE MASTER PLAN COMPATIBLE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES COMPATIBLE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES Design Team Members: Mary Johnson Derek Smith Enrique Nunez As an Atlantic coast barrier island, Virginia key has two very significant features that should dictate its current and future use. The first is its natural environment, which is clearly one of the most unique in South Florida, and situated as it is in the urban landscape of Miami, truly a jewel. As our region becomes more populated and developed, the need to preserve such natural resources become para- mount. The second is the historical fact that a segregated beach park was created for Negroes at that site, an occurrence that should forever be a physically and symbolically remembered as part of the Miami history. It would also serve as a reminder of the invaluable contributions people of African descent have made to the growth and prosperity of South Florida. To that end, as various use activities were discussed, studied, and analyzed, the following land uses were arrived at as those that provide recreational and cultural uses consistent with respecting Virginia Key's natural environment and histo- ry. The proposed land -uses for the beach park are as follows: A. An active public beach park; in order to optimize the natural features of Virginia Key Beach Park, beach and park activity should be restricted to the historic Old County Park area. This would also rein- force the historic significance of the beach park. Activities in this area would be similar to those that occur at parks, i.e. picnics, hiking, children's playground, recreational activities and cultural events as well new areas constructed along with the necessary ancillary facilities. There would be a requirement that these facilities be designed in a manner that is congenial to the natural environment and historical significance. B. Restore the natural beach dune, coastal strand and maritime communities; based upon the delicate balance between ecosystems, the natural environments that result from the creation of barriers must be restored and maintained. The deterioration and continued threat to these habitats, places the island at risk in terms of its importance as a natural asset. Oral testimonies, re-creation and photographic docu- mentation indicate that these natural features were an integral part of the appeal that Virginia Key Beach Park had and contributed significantly to it being considered such a special place. C. A public beach: The value of a waterfront park includes the ability for interaction with the water. Virginia Key Beach Park provides one of the most beautiful beaches in South Florida. It therefore lends itself to a variety of water based activities for visitors to the beach park. Those activities could include non -motorized watercraft such as windsurfing, kayaking, wading and swimming. The beach THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 0 1 and sand restoration project should consider a plan that allows for swimming. The City of Miami should provide for the necessary physical adjustments to make swimming safe. ' D. Open meadows and fields: there are areas of Old County Park that were traditionally used for very active human functions. Such activity obviously, was an intrusion into the natural environment. This intrusion has left large open areas where similar activities can occur in the future. The open, minimal vegetation areas should be developed as open meadows that can be used for a variety of purposes such as informal ball games, cultural events and contemplative meditation areas. E. A conservation buffer zone: the two features of the island being recommended as assets to be built upon (cultural and recreational aspects) are actually at opposite extremes in regards to human activity, with the natural preserve designed to have the least possible amount of human intrusion and the beach to be a very active place for people. In light of this, a conservation buffer should be created to provide a transition between the preserve and the beach -park. The buffer zone would create a natural area with lakes and wetlands and would lend itself to human interaction in the form of: 1. Nature and Historic trails 2. Environmental art 3. Nature exploration for youth 4. Observation platforms 5. Fishing ponds F. A "Living Museum" historic district: "Negro Beach" was created as a result of a civil protest demanding equitable treatment; actions that were consistent with those of the time. Virginia Key Beach Park was used primarily as an outdoor place for exterior functions, thus, the very events that are to be memorialized, occurred on the outside. Consequently, any commemoration of these events should include a celebration of nature. Therefore, a "Living Museum" is suggested, whose concept is to pro- vide exhibits that are expressed with nature as the backdrop and would be experienced a one moves from one place of activity to another. These outdoor displays would of course require some interaction with the interior gallery. The gallery, by its inside design, would be compatible with the natural set- tings. The "Living Museum" could possibly include such components as: I. An environmental sculpture garden 2. Historic trails interacting with nature trails 3. The preservation and restoration of existing structures: a. concession stand b. dance floor c. rest -rooms d. picnic shelters March 9. 2000 e. carrousel f. train ride and tunnel g. cabanas h. facade restoration of cabin Submitted into the public record connection with item on -00 Walter Foeman City Cleric The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force • THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM H - BEACH PARK LAND- USE MASTER PLAN COMPATIBLE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES Land -use masterplan THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK V 0 y hii 2- View of proposed new cabanas and walkway behind restored dune March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force • • THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM II - BEACH PARK LAND- USE MASTER PLAN COMPATIBLE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES View from proposed interpretation center toward beach Submitted into the public record in connection with item Cr on 3 -`i -c1a Walter Foerrian 4 City Clerk THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK I Submitted into the public record in connection THE CHARRETTE item on waiter Foeman DESIGN TEAM H - BEACH PARK LAND- USE MASTER PLAN A city Clerk COMPATIBLE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES yi�r:1 A BRIEF HISTORICAL OVERVIEW FROM 1896 TO PRESENT Virginia Key Beach and Park, the 77-acre "Old County Park", as it is known --------�---- today, resonates with the modern history of Miami as well as with the ''s ��,36 struggle for freedom by African-Americans. It has become a symbol of hope for L �•.�.-z: -"� ' , iall people. It combines the need to renew understanding of our cultural P heritage and revive and enhance the common ground of public parks. In a time Scc•I �>�.1,-.: �� - , when land is so scarce and when redesigning places for multicultural �. .-. :,n•_:fig understanding is so important, p p p ' this ark represents the possibilities that a renewed pride of place can fulfill for local residents. C+� e, - : ; e The history of the "Old County Park" began in 1896. In that year, two significant events occurred that 1 6 would determine the future of this precious oceanfront site: 1). the City of Miami was founded, with , - S approximately one-third of the signers of the Charter being African -American men; and 2) The U.S. Supreme Court handed down it's famous decision in the Plessy v. Ferguson case, approving racial seg- ,. A A-`s c u r regation in "separate but equal" facilities as the law of the land. Sec. 21. "Separate but equal" as a reality was doomed to failure from the start, since the only reason FOR sepa- ration was to perpetuate the inequality existing throughout the South and throughout America. It was �'•, �: I this reality that excluded African Americans from virtually all public beaches in Dade County until the 1940's. Around 1920, as the city of Miami grew, public swimming facilities were developed for the white population. In light of this, the late D.A. Dorsey, a black millionaire, purchased what is now known as "Fisher Island" so blacks could have a beach of their own, but due to increasing property taxes, Mr. Dorsey 'ce 'o Sec." L= i sold the property. The black community was left with no place to enjoy the beaches of the area, except " M by traveling to Ft. Lauderdale or Pompano. A unique exception, still remembered by some, was a beach on Virginia Key known at the time as "Bear Cut." Local elders in the African- American com- munity remember visiting the site as youngsters in the 1930s, when it was simply understood that this was a space exclusively for African Americans. A I survey map dated 1918 establishes a segregated use of the facility at a date even closer to the 1896 5&C-� + Court Decision, as it shows a Negro Dancing Pavilion where the 77-acre Park now stands. ..... ,�':,,; y7, ) `, r For several years, many members of the black community requested a designated beach where they S'C` ' '1 �'; ' _ could enjoy the waters of the Atlantic ocean, to no avail. On August 1, 1945, after a bold protest led b the late Judge Lawson E. Thomas, Virginia Key Beach was officially opened as a "Negroes only" county park. Even though the island was still accessible only by boat and the swimming area was Historic maps of Virginia Key -first indication of Negro Dance Pavillion March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 1 C, 0 2'20 I - 0 1 1 11 11 u n I 11 Virginia Key Beach was used for many functions and ceremonies, including baptisms Submitted into the public record in connection � with item 1�. on 3o Waiter Foeman �eJ h a .. City Clerk March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM H - BEACH PARK LAND -USE MASTER PLAN COMPATIBLE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL USES plagued by dangerous currents, the park enjoyed instant popularity and became a "paradise" serving as a cherished getaway, gathering place, and even a sacred site for religious services. It helped unite neighborhoods and social classes of South Florida's African-American community. Although the beach was also opened to Cuban -Americans in the late 1950's, it remained segregated until another protest was held. That protest, led by the late Rev. Theodore Gibson, the late Oscar Range, and Garth C. Reeves, resulted in the integration of Crandon Park, and opened all beaches for all people. Virginia Key Beach, however, still remained the popular preference for many in the black community, for its scenic beauty and its strong traditions. It would continue to be popular until the early 1980s, shortly after Metropolitan Dade County conveyed Virginia Key Beach, along with Miami Marine Stadium to the City of Miami with certain deed restric- tions. These restrictions included as requirements that the property be used for public park purposes and kept open to the public, and that the City of Miami provide maintenance and service equal to that previously provided by the County. Shortly after it took control of the site, the City of Miami closed the area to the public, citing opera- tional expenses as the reason form it's closure. Up until the present, it has been available by permit only, and it's buildings have been left to deteriorate. Since then, a number of proposals for its use have been put forth, including a narrowly -defeated plan to convert it into a campground for recreational vehicles in 1995. Other ideas followed, as the City gov- ernment explored the possibility of leasing the property to private developers as a way of rendering it profitable. A recent development scheme, to construct an upscale "eco -campground" resort that would exclude most of the public from a particularly desirable portion of the beach, aroused sustained con- cern by many in the community. Attention was focused on public access, the ecology of the park and surrounding area, and the need to preserve the park's rich and unique history. Unfortunately, the rich history of this historic park has been largely forgotten and is now unknown to many. This is especially true for newcomers to Miami from other parts of the nation and the world. However, Virginia Key's story is very much the story of those who built Miami and made South Florida the attractive place that it has become for so many. It is a story that includes the island's history before the modern era, and the continuing freedom struggle since the Civil Rights era. This is history not to be lost, but to be cherished and preserved for future generations of residents and THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK r� n March 9, 2000 National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, Tennessee %aar►�s� • /►" �..,� `- fir, -;�,, African American Heritage Preservation Cultural Complex, Raleigh, North Carolina Roy Wilkins Memorial, St. Paul, Minnesota 4D 0 THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM III - COMMEMORATION OF THE PLACE (SIMILAR SITES) Submitted into the public recordjn connection with item (, on Walter Foeman �. . City Clerk The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force i American Beach, Jacksonville, Florida American Beach, Jacksonville, Florida - ,. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Boston African American National Historic Site, Birmingham,Alabama Boston, Massachussens THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 0 Design Tears Members: Nathaniel Belcher Bruce Ford THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM III - COMMEMORATION OF THE PLACE Submitted into the public record connection with item on 3 -i -0 Walter Foeman City Clerk Virginia Key Beach Park as a living monument exhibiting civil rights significance March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA T6EACILPARK,� 220 1 u n � THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM IV - HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION Historic Significance and Historic Preservation Team Allan Shulman, AIA Team Leader Thorn Grafton t Allan Poms r n Historic view of carousel IMarch 9, 2000 Historic view of cabin/apartments Preserving Virginia Key's Historic Resources In addition to its natural landscape, Virginia Key offers a significant historical landscape that is mani- fest both in the memory of Miamians and in the phyisical remains of buildings. The restoration, reuse and reinterpretation of these structures will link the current use of the park to its past. During its heyday in the 1950's and 1960's, Virginia Key Beach boasted numerous facilities. For the entertainment of children, a carrousel and toy train were constructed at the north end of the site. Nearby was a circular dance platform, surrounded by coconut palms. Farther south, a snack bar and toilet facilities were built. At the south end of the Beach, cabanas and a boat dock were built. The original park structures were built in a variety of styles and according to different techniques. The Carrousel, housed in a distinctive and playful concrete and masonry structure with a pyramidal roof, had large metal doors that pivoted horizontally to open the entire structure. Glass block areas in the solid corner elements lightened the structure. The toy train, built nearby, ran a figure-eight loop which passed close to the beach. The journey began from a train stop covered by a metal shed (located near the carrousel) and passed through a variety of landscapes, including a tunnel built at its west end. The snack bar and toilets, probably built in the 1960's, are functional structures constructed of exposed con- crete and concrete block. One feature of the snack bar is the large area shaded by its roof, where people could congregate. The Cabanas, in contrast, were simple wood vernacular structures. The condition of the site's original structures varies. The carousel building is intact, if badly decayed. Its roof is partially open and the carrousel has long since been removed, but the structure seems sal- vageable. The toy train is gone and even the tracks and train stop have been removed - only the tunnel remains. The wood structures have completely disappeared - only their foundations are visible. The snack bar and public toilets, perhaps because of their simple and solid construction, remain. Submitted into the public record in connection with item on -Z, -q-0° Walter Foeman City Cleric The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK - X20 a 11 11 u 11 11 11 11 11 II II II II n 11 n Submitted in o the public • record in connection with item G_ on "0° Walter Foeman City Cie* A Vision for Virginia Key (a 0 THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM IV - HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION The most important priority in restoring the site are the entertainment features - the carrousel and toy train. These are remembered with particular fondness by many who frequented the beach, and should be restored faithfully. Similar restorations, including the renovation of a nearly identical carrousel at Key Biscayne, give reason to hope that this can be accomplished technically, legally and according to the most recent codes and standards. The landscape abutting the tracks of the toy train should be restored as an ecologically sound landscape that would make the journey an interpretive experience. The dance platform with its sourrounding ring of trees should also be restored, and new trees planted to replace those that have disappeared. The snack bar appears salvageable, and its location near the water edge makes it desireable place to re- establish as a center of the beach. The toilet structure is similarly useable, although likely too small to accomodate the larger number of toilets that would be currently required and allow handicap accessi- bility. Its restoration should be accompanied by the development of new facilities, which can be inte- grated into an interpretative center. The wood structures are gone and their location, close to the water's edge, makes it unlikely they could be legally reconstructed at the same location. New cabana structures that in some way recall the his- toric ones can be located in more environmentally sound ways, for instance behind a reconstructed dune structure. March 9, 2000 Historic Preservation masterplan showing location of restored snack bar anti bathrooms. carousel, dance area and train stop. Plan also shows new beachfront cabanas. boardwalk anti restored dune The City of Miami. Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK a Su bmittento the public record jt� connection with item �� on �� Walter Foeman City Clerk THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM IV - HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION March 9, 2000 View of the snack bar facing the beach View of a BBQ pavillion The City of Miami. Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force View of the Dance area surrounded by coconut palms View of the cabanas THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 0 0 4-4 0 , w View of the cabanas THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 0 0 4-4 0 March 9. 2000 THE CHARRETTE DESIGN TEAM IV - HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION View of train tunnel View of toy train View of tov train arriving at stop The City of Miami. Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force Historic Preservation masterplan showing reconstruction of the tov train and train stop at the location of the historic train loop. Submitted into the public record j� connection with item C� o - -� Walter Foeman Y, . „ City Clerk THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK i I -A - 220 Task Force Recommendations to the City of Miami Commission The City of Miami Virginia Key Park Civil Rights Task Force makes the following recommendations for consideration and adoption by the City of Miami Commission: I. Reaffirm the Principle of Public Ownership of Virginia Key Beach and take immediate action to preserve the 77 acre Virginia Key Beach and Park exclusively as a publicly owned and operated entity, for public use and with unrestricted public access, as stipulated by the deed restrictions outlined in the March 1982 land conveyance between Miami Dade County Commission and the City of Miami. II. Reopen the beach and park by developing a phase-in schedule for necessary repairs to all physi- cal structures that would allow public use of the beach and park, commencing with weekend openings beginning on the Easter weekend, 2000, with the ultimate goal for daily openings by Memorial Day, 2000. III. Continue the work of the Virginia Key Beach Task Force by establishing with the Task Force, a permanent, public body to coordinate the implementation of the outlined recommendations and to maintain continued public input and oversight of the process. ' March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force TASK FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS IV. Preservation -Stabilization A. Support the process to secure historic site designations for the 77 acre site at the Federal, State and local levels, including the placement of state approved historic markers. B. Immediately take the necessary steps to stabilize all existing structures on the site to prevent further deterioration, and make infrastructure repairs as needed. V. Implementation and Planning: Phase One Year One: April 2000 - April 2001 A. Support the project planning and land use concepts as recommended by the Virginia Key Beach Park Task Force, that resulted from the January 14 charette and the work of Clyde Judson & Associates and the team of design professionals. B. Support the development of a phase-in plan to include the preservation and restoration of all historic structures and the development of a world class Civil Rights Historical Museum with environmentally compatible nature trails and educational walks on the site. C. Support the preparation of a multi-year financing plan as initiated by the Virginia Key Task Force. This includes but is not limited to city staff support and appropriate resources, financial consultants and planners to ensure the implementation of all the envisioned capital improvements. VI. Planning: Phase Two: Years 2-5 A. Raise endowments and grants to begin construction of Civil Rights Museum. Submitted into the public record in connection with itemon 3 -�, -oc Walter Foeman r:.. City Clerk THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK i 0- 4'6'1. Submittonto the public record in connection with item �— on of � Walter Foeman city clerk Comjorr at yes hest errata( Aparemenes for overnight guests. -Apartments and Cabanas For a home on the brach, apartments are Available for overnight or longer term rentals. The cottages will accom- modate four persons, and arc complete with kitchenettes, showers, toilets and screened porches- Located on the beach, but removed from the center of activities, the cot- tages offer the visitor an opportunity to enjoy the utmost in relaxation .end pleasnrc. Twelve modern cahanas, equipped with shower stalls, beach chairs and awning porches, .are grouped on the East end of the park. These cabanas are for daytinte use only, and may be 1-awd for any number of days. For full information on cottages or cabanas, call the Park Superintendent at 82-2906. Scenic Xzilroad For A thrilling ride, get aboard the narrow gauge railroad that will carry you happily on i trip along the beach And into the thickly wooded Arrau, primarily designed to attract the youngsters, the miniature train often carries a capacity load of oldslcrs — reliving one of childhood's plcasun memories. Church and School Picnics The difficulty of finding A picnic location for large, or- ganized groups has long lxen recognized, but happily, Ar Virginia Beach, the picnic facilities are sufficient to Ac- commodate several hundred persons At a nine. B-sides the individual barbecue grills, a large 2Ox6 foot barbecue pit is available for large groups. picnic tables, spread :order the roconut palms, assure ample -'eating" space. It is suggested that picnic chairmen of large ,Groups call the park Superintendent for reservations. Small family picnics are not ceyuired to make reservations for use of the indivialual grills. March 9, 2000 0 VIRGINIA MAIN �neea �r ale • • PHASE I - START-UP OPERATIONAL COSTS AND FINANCING Immediate Operational Costs and Financing CITY OF MIAMI DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION Preliminary Maintenance/Operational Costs Virginia Key Beach (Old County Site) Winter --36 Weeks 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. L Staff a) Cashier 1 x $8.50 x 56 hrs. per week x 36 weeks $17,136 b) Maintenance 3 P/T x $6.50 x 32 hrs. per week x 36 weeks $22,464 C) Lifeguard ' 1 UG x $10.00 x 56 hrs. per week x 36 weeks $20,160 d) Security 1 x $6.50 x 112 hrs. per week x 36 weeks $26,208 85,968 FICA 7.65% 6,577 Sub -Total 92,545 Virginia Key Beach (Old County Site) Summer --16 Weeks 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. BfiA�D 0� COtlN'IY CNERS 2. a) Cashier Bade County Park Department 1 x $8.50 x 70 hrs per week x 16 weeks 9,520 Adeenis7w6re Offices law -1410 Conry Ho ist, NLami' F M4. b) Maintenance 4 P/T x $6.50 x 32 hrs. per week x 16 weeks 13,312 c) Lifeguard 1 UG x $10.00 x 70 hrs. per week x 16 weeks 11,200 The City of'Miami' Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK rr i� Submitted into the public record ,,in connection with item .S.c— on .r3—= Walter Foeman �.: C4 Clerk d) Security 2) Does not include utilities or other City internal service charges, i.e., Property Maintenance, 1 x $6.50 x 98 hrs per week x 16 weeks 10,192 Solid Waste, Risk Management, etc.. 44,224 3) These funds are not budgeted in our City's current '99 - '00 budget. FICA 7.65% 3,383 Sub -Total 47,607 4) Swimming will be prohibited. II. Equipment (One Time Cost) CITY OF MIAMI DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION 1 Pick-up Truck $30,000 1 3 -Gang Mower, Rake Preliminary Repair Costs to Existing Buildings and Brush Hog 27,000 2 Weed Eaters 1,000 Virginia Key Beach (Old County Site) 2 Blowers 1,000 1 Power Pruner 500 1) Repair Bathroom Building (includes Roof Repairs and Painting) $60,000 1 Chain Saw 450 1 Edger 500 2) Repair Concession Building (includes doors, windows, painting, and 1 15 -Gallon Spray Tank with Pump 600 roof repairs) 35,000 1 ATV 6,000 3) Properly Securing Carousel Building (includes New Roof) 40,000 1 Riding Mower 3,500 Purchase of Office and Storage Facility 60,000 Total $135,000 Sub -Total $130,550 COST STILL TO BE DETERMINED: III. Miscellaneous Supplies Electrical Repairs (Rewiring; New Panels and Fixtures, etc.) Parking Lot Resurfacing/Drainage Round -up Sewer Connections for Bathroom Building (If Required by WASA) Toilet Paper Pick Stick Note: 1) As requested by Virginia Key Park Civil Rights Task Force, this is a preliminary budget Trash Barrel that would at least preserve the current conditions of these buildings. For example, in the cases of the Safety Supplies concession and carousel buildings, additional expenditures would have to be incurred for interior Sub -Total $6,000 improvements that would make these buildings usable. Also, the existing buildings would have to be inspected for structural integrity. Grand Total $276,702 2) Funding would have to be identified for these repairs. Note: 1) As requested by the Virginia Key Park Civil Rights Task Force, this preliminary budget reflects operational costs to open the "Old County Beach" site in its current conditions (no new ameni- ties or investment of needed capital improvements) on a seven (7) day a week, year-round basis. Any future plans that involve changes to the site's current conditions would necessitate modifications to this plan. March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK IX. Capital Costs and Financing PROJECT EMPHASES AND DIVERSITY The conceptual plan for this valuable property focuses on four interdisciplinary leisure emphases. These are as follows: 01. Environmental (Restoration, Preservation & Interpretation) 02. Historical (Restoration, Preservation & Interpretation) 03. Recreational & Park (Facilities, Programs & Special Events) 04. Cultural (Facilities, Programs & Special Events) In order to (A) protect and enhance the vegetation, water bodies and sand shoreline of this unusual site and to (B) recreate and expand its opportunity to serve both mankind and wildlife, a diversity of capital improvements are needed. These will be both land based and water based, both active and pas- sive, both indoor and outdoor, and both primary and supportive to implement the total plan. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT COMPONENTS A significant investment will be necessary to finance such standard capital improvement project components as the following: 01. Market Analysis 02. Site Analysis 03. Surveys And Borings 04. Site Plan 05. Project Scope 06. Project Phasing 07. Project Scheduling 08. Cost Estimation 09. Financial Planning 10. Financial Mobilization 11. Designs And Permits 12. Site Preparation 13. Environmental Restoration 14. Utility Systems 15. Site And Facility Security 16. Access Features 17. Buildings And Structures 18. Facilities And Areas March 9, 2000 Submitted into the public record in connection with item C. on -5--q'-00 Walter Foeman City Clerk The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force PHASE 2 - LONG TERM CAPITAL COSTS AND FINANCING 19. Equipment And Furniture 20. Graphics And Signage 21. Landscape Beautification 22. Project Management FINANCIAL NEED, COMMITMENTS & BALANCE $5-7 MILLION NEED Because of the (a) size of the property, (b) condition of the natural resources and man-made facili- ties, (c) diversity of leisure emphases and (d) volume of envisioned improvements, a multi-million dol- lar financial investment is needed. Based upon the preliminary planning information presently avail- able, a general estimate of the level and range of this financial need is an amount between $5-7 million dollars. FINANCIAL COMMITMENTS In November of 1996 the electorate of Greater Miami overwhelmingly approved the $200 million Safe Neighborhood Parks general obligation bond program. This major capitalization initiative includ- ed two projects and amounts for improvements at Virginia Key Park And Beach. The first amount of $1,000,000 was earmarked for beach restoration at this property. The second amount of $500,000 was earmarked for a nature center on the Key. In 1997 the City of Miami Parks and Recreation Department submitted the required grant applica- tions for these bond funds to the Citizens Oversight Committee that monitors the Safe Neighborhood Parks program. Both applications were officially approved by the Committee. Following the City's implementation of the capital improvements, the bond funds will be paid to the City on a reimburse- ment basis. The two above financial commitments total $1,500,000. In order to determine how much, if any, of this amount could be utilized for the improvements described herein, the City of Miami will need to obtain an official written opinion from the Citizens Oversight Committee. FINANCIAL BALANCE Depending upon the Citizens Oversight Committee's decision regarding eligible funding for the capital improvements described herein, the remaining balance of financing needed will be a mini -mum of $3.5-$5.5 million and a maximum of $5.0-$7.0 million, for a total balance range of $3.5-$7.0 mil- lion. These potential balances were calculated as follows: THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 0 ' CHARETTE QUESTIONS AND CONSENSUS Two different sessions of the January 14-16, 2000 charette for the Virginia Key site were devoted to discussing finances for the improvements envisioned by the public. During these sessions two primary monetary questions came into focus. These were: IMarch 9. 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force L:] L] PHASE 2 - LONG TERM CAPITAL COSTS AND FINANCING 1. How much financing is needed to totally fulfill the desired capital improvements? 2. What kinds and amounts of financing are appropriate for this park project'? Regarding the second question, the attendees generally agreed that (A) the previously referred to $1,500,000 of bond funds, (B) the fulfillment of a 1980's $2,000,000 parks funding commitment by the County Seaport and (C) $600,000- $1,000,000 of grants should serve as significant ingredients of the financial plan for this property. However, it was the consensus of the charette participants that a detailed and diversified Financing Portfolio must be assembled to identify all of the possible and prob- able kinds and amounts of financing that can be mobilized to capitalize the necessary improvements. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FINANCING PORTFOLIO There are a diversity of revenues that can finance the capital improvements of the Virginia Key property. The City of Miami, its appointed Task Force and other interested groups and individuals should analyze all possible (A) Revenue Resources, (B) Revenue Classifications & Types, (C) Revenue Sources & Segments and (D) Revenue Organizations And Programs in order to select the "best mix" of revenue ingredients for this priority leisure site. The (E) Revenue Amounts should be estimated that can be obtained through each program. (F) Revenue Schedules should be prepared for the utilization of each program. A (G) Revenue Roundtable Meeting with all of the administrators of the selected programs should be facilitated to discuss and clarify the pro -grams. The (H) Revenue Roles And Responsibilities for the implementation of the portfolio should be out- lined. These should be explained at a meeting of the City and Task Force to gain acceptance of the duties. Regarding (1) Information Integration, all of the pertinent information should be combined into a concise, integrated draft document. A (J) Portfolio Presentation should be made to the City and Task Force to obtain final input before the official copies are printed. PORTFOLIO INVESTMENT The Financial Portfolio will provide a management tool through which appropriate and adequate revenues will be planned, generated and administered. Such a Portfolio will provide a revenue roadmap to fulfill the capitalization needs of this valuable property. THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 00- 'A;,�0 Submitted into the public record in connection with item on ::�z' `-02 Walter Foeman City Clerk BALANCE MINIMUMS Financial Need - Financial Commitment = Financial Balance $5,000,000 - $1,500,000 Eligible = $3,500,000 Minimum to to $7,000,000 - $1,500,000 Eligible = $5,500,000 Minimum BALANCE MAXIMUMS Financial Need - Financial Commitment = Financial Balance $5,000,000 - $0,000,000 Eligible = $5,000,000 Minimum ' to to $7,000,000 - $0,000,000 Eligible = $7,000,000 Minimum ENTITIES AND PARTNERSHIP ' THREE PRIMARY ENTITIES The three primary entities that may be responsible for fulfilling the overall financial need are (1) the ' City of Miami through its Parks and Recreation Department, (2) Miami -Dade County who transferred the property to the City for public park and recreation purposes, and the (3) Virginia Key Task Force appointed by the City of Miami to obtain the public's input and desires for this important site. At the current time, these three entities do not individually or collectively have the $3.5-$7.0 million financial balance available for the necessary capital improvements. CITY + COUNTY + CITIZEN PARTNERSHIP In order for this community vision to become a reality, these three City, County and Citizen entities will most likely need to form a partnership, with each partner sharing certain financial responsibilities for the total budget. Priorities will need to be determined. Multiple phases will need to be defined, and the improvements will need to be implemented over a multi-year period. ' CHARETTE QUESTIONS AND CONSENSUS Two different sessions of the January 14-16, 2000 charette for the Virginia Key site were devoted to discussing finances for the improvements envisioned by the public. During these sessions two primary monetary questions came into focus. These were: IMarch 9. 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force L:] L] PHASE 2 - LONG TERM CAPITAL COSTS AND FINANCING 1. How much financing is needed to totally fulfill the desired capital improvements? 2. What kinds and amounts of financing are appropriate for this park project'? Regarding the second question, the attendees generally agreed that (A) the previously referred to $1,500,000 of bond funds, (B) the fulfillment of a 1980's $2,000,000 parks funding commitment by the County Seaport and (C) $600,000- $1,000,000 of grants should serve as significant ingredients of the financial plan for this property. However, it was the consensus of the charette participants that a detailed and diversified Financing Portfolio must be assembled to identify all of the possible and prob- able kinds and amounts of financing that can be mobilized to capitalize the necessary improvements. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FINANCING PORTFOLIO There are a diversity of revenues that can finance the capital improvements of the Virginia Key property. The City of Miami, its appointed Task Force and other interested groups and individuals should analyze all possible (A) Revenue Resources, (B) Revenue Classifications & Types, (C) Revenue Sources & Segments and (D) Revenue Organizations And Programs in order to select the "best mix" of revenue ingredients for this priority leisure site. The (E) Revenue Amounts should be estimated that can be obtained through each program. (F) Revenue Schedules should be prepared for the utilization of each program. A (G) Revenue Roundtable Meeting with all of the administrators of the selected programs should be facilitated to discuss and clarify the pro -grams. The (H) Revenue Roles And Responsibilities for the implementation of the portfolio should be out- lined. These should be explained at a meeting of the City and Task Force to gain acceptance of the duties. Regarding (1) Information Integration, all of the pertinent information should be combined into a concise, integrated draft document. A (J) Portfolio Presentation should be made to the City and Task Force to obtain final input before the official copies are printed. PORTFOLIO INVESTMENT The Financial Portfolio will provide a management tool through which appropriate and adequate revenues will be planned, generated and administered. Such a Portfolio will provide a revenue roadmap to fulfill the capitalization needs of this valuable property. THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 00- 'A;,�0 the public Into Submitted With record in connection �� on iiem Waiter Foeman City C1O( Attachment C to this document provides a detailed and sequential listing of the ten primary Work Tasks and specific responsibilities that must be completed to assemble the Portfolio. It is estimated that an investment of $15,000 is required for the services of an experienced parks financing consultant to success -fully lead and coordinate the preparation of this vital project information. This investment to properly identify the finances required to make this outstanding project a reality is minuscule when compared to the cost of the total project. For the provision of this service, an amount of $15,000 would be invested which equals less than one third of one per cent (0.003) of a $5,000,000 total capital improvement budget for the property or one fifth of one per cent (0.002) of a $7,000,000 budget. It is recommended that this compensation be paid in equal monthly payments dur- ing the provision of the service, rather than as a one time advance retainer payment VIRGINIA KEY PARK AND BEACH CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FINANCIAL PORTFOLIO WORK TASKS TASK NUMBER AND SUBJECT SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES TASK 01 -- REVENUE RESOURCES (A) Identify a diversity of alternatives. (B) Analyze the applicability of each alternative. © Select the best alternatives) for this project. TASK 02 -- REVENUE CLASSIFICATIONS AND TYPES (A) Identify a diversity of alternatives. (B) Analyze the applicability of each alternative. © Select the best altemative(s) for this project. TASK 03 -- REVENUE SOURCES AND SEGMENTS (A) Identify a diversity of alternatives. March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Kev Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force • C7 PHASE 2 - LONG TERM CAPITAL COSTS AND FINANCING (B) Analyze the applicability of each alternative. Select the best alternative(s) for this project. TASK 04 -- REVENUE ORGANIZATIONS AND PROGRAMS (A) Identify a diversity of alternatives. (B) Analyze the applicability of each alternative. Select the best alternative(s) for this project. TASK 05 -- REVENUE AMOUNTS (A) Estimate the amount of revenue that can be obtained through each program. TASK 06 -- REVENUE SCHEDULES (A) Prepare a schedule for the utilization of each program. TASK NUMBER AND SUBJECT SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES TASK 07 -- REVENUE ROUNDTABLE MEETING (A) Plan a one day meeting with all of the administrators of the selected programs. (B) Print agendas and handout materials for the meeting. © Facilitate a discussion and clarification of all selected and any additional programs. TASK 08 -- REVENUE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (A) Outline the general duties of the City of Miami, the Task Force and a Consultant related to the implementation of the portfolio. (B) Facilitate a meeting with the City and Task Force to explain, modify and gain acceptance of the duties. TASK 09 -- INFORMATION INTEGRATION THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 0- :440 • (A) Combine all pertinent information into a concise, integrated draft document. TASK 10 -- PORTFOLIO PRESENTATION (A) Print twenty-five (25) draft documents copies. (B) Present the draft document to the City of Miami and Task Force. © Prepare the final document. (D) Print twenty-five (25) final document copies. March 9, 2000 The City of Miami, Virginia Key Beach Park Civil Rights Task Force • • PHASE 2 - LONG TERM CAPITAL COSTS AND FINANCING Submitted into the public record in connection y'f�th item --clrl-._ on .Zr 9—_ct, Walter Foeman �.... City Clerk THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK 0 02/02/2000 15:37 305890017 0 ♦ ♦ ♦ Wor P.O. Box 3=11. Mbmi. FL.33233-0011 M. Athalie Range. ChalrpeWn Telephone' 305-641-4343 FAX: 305-691-6805 Feb. 1, 2000 SENIOR CARE CHEM IN PAGE 01 4 VD. t.� I V I L IN 1%--7 ASK FUPCE THE CITY OF M"I, FLORIDA Gene Tinnie, Vice-Ch0frW50n Telephone/FAX: 305751-9791 e -troll. walitlr N000oi.com Att: Suzie Fax: 305 416-2075 Phone 305 416-2070 City of Miami Commission Meeting Scheduli ig Dept. Please be advised that we would like to be put on the March 9th Agenda to make our presentation, as requ-!red by Ordinance, to the Commission. If you have any questions, please call me immediately at 305 751-9791, Gene Tin Vice Chair\\ O- 220 \V 01/20/2000 04:47 3057791 GENE TIMIIE _ _ PAGE 02 P.O. aox =I 1. Mkrd, FL 332") — THE CITY OF WAMI, FLORIDA M. Alhalle Range, Camper= Gene Thnie. Mce-Chabperson Telephone: 306-691.4343 Telephone/FAX: 3W751-9791 FAX %Xko1-6806 a-mCII: woEnrUe@aol.com TO: Ms. Gia Smith, Office of the City Manager q o o �Q y FROM: Gene Timair, Vice -Chair SUBJECT. Content of Presentation to the City Commission on March 9, MW DATE: !February 18, 2000 The Virginia Key Park Civil Rights Task Force respectfully requests to have an item placed on the Agenda of the Miami City Commission Meeting of March 9, 2000, scheduled, if possible at a time certain. This item will be the presentation of Recommendations for tete next stage of future planning, dcvcl- opment and use of the told County Park site on Virginia Key. as set forth in the ord Aanee of June 8, 1999, modified in October, 1999. Sufficient time should be allowed for a power point presentation of the findings of tete Public Charette and the summazy of Recommendations based upon those findings and upon additional research. Time certain scheduling is requested to maximize public attendance. awareness, and future participa- tion in tilde process. Thank you fvr your kind consideration of dVs mlaltm G MMWBERS The Hon. Dr. Barbara Carey-t►uler • Dr. Dorothy JenWs Fleft • Mr. MIguel f errnvin • Mr. Clyde Ju0W Mrs. Maude WvAx ld • Mrs. Enid Pinkney - Mm M. Aftwoo Rc rQ& Mr. Garth C. %eves • The Hon. Beryl Robeft Ms. BerNoe Sowyer • Mrs Eugenia Thomas+ • Mr. Cine ilnnle • Mr. RL -had Townsend • W. Mark W*"M 00-2 000t40.7:1:8= -Feb -00'.1.1:30A VIRGINIA KEY CIVIL RIGHTS TASK FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE CITY OF MIAMI COMMISSION. Based on a series of biweekly public meetings at City Hall during the past nine months, on the consensus developed at the three-day Public Planning Charette in January, and on subsequent research, the City of Miami Virginia Key Park Civil Rights Task Force respectfully recommends that the City Commission: I. Reaffirm the Principle of Public Ownership of Virginia Key Beach and Park, and take immediate action to restore and preserve the 77 -acre site as a publicly owned and operated entity, for public use and with full public access, as stipulated by the deed restrictions outlined in the March, 1982, land conveyance between Miami -Dade County and the City of Miami. II. Initiate Stabilization of Existing Structures and Park Reopening: A. Immediately take the necessary steps to stabilize all existing structures on the site to prevent further deterioration or unauthorized entry, and to make infrastructure repairs as needed. B. Reopen the Beach and Park on a phased -in schedule, including the aforementioned repairs, beginning with weekend openings on and after the Easter Sunday weekend, 2000, and increasing to daily openings following the Memorial Day Weekend. (Special provision should be made for a revived traditional Virginia Key Beach Easter Sunday Sunrise Service, involving several churches). C. Provide supplemental transportation to Virginia Key Beach, especially for elderly residents of Miami and disadvantaged youth ion selected days and/or for special cultural events. III. Support the Next Level of Necessary Planning and Design Development for Virginia Key Beach as a natural environmental experience, historical experience, recreational experience, and cultural experience, including the following tasks: A. Phased overall land use planning based upon the the environmental considerations, findings, and consensus of the Public Planning Charette, including nature trails and educational amenities; B. Phased planning for the preservation and restoration of all historic structures and the development of the site as a world-class commemorative Museum complex, compatible and harmonious with other land uses; C. Official Designation of Virginia Key Beach and Park as an Historic Landmark at the Federal, State and local levels, including the placement of appropriate State -approved historical markers; D. Marketing, feasibility, and economic viability studies as required; E. Continued preparation of the multi-year financing plan initiated by the Task Force, including, but not limited to the support of City staff, financial planning consultants, and appropriate resources, to ensure the implementation of all envisioned capital improvements. IV. Support the continuation of the work of the Task Force as a public body and vested partner with the City in the future planning for Virginia Key Beach and Park. am=ciain; 3-r._ oo 40 �. 'l VV s