HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Commission Fact SheetCITY COMMISSION FACT SHEET
File ID: 9113
Title: AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING
APPENDIX "B", TITLED "WATERFRONT WALKWAY DESIGN
GUIDELINES", OF ORDINANCE NO. 13114, THE ZONING ORDINANCE
OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED; MAKING FINDINGS;
CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
PURPOSE: Planning staff proposes amending "Appendix B - Waterfront Design
Guidelines" of Miami 21 to allow flexibility for bay and river walkway design while also
creating a more cohesive walkway experience by requiring more uniform material
selections. This update references new seawall regulations and creates design flexibility
to accommodate both access to the water and access to private properties with high
flood elevations. This update also incorporates performance -based measures which will
improve pedestrian comfort and safety.
FINDING(S):
PLANNING DEPARTMENT: Recommended approval.
PLANNING, ZONING AND APPEALS BOARD: Recommended approval on May 19,
2021, by a vote of 8-0.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
City of Miami
Legislation
Ordinance
Enactment Number:14016
City Hall
3500 Pan Ameican Drive
Miami, FL 33133
www.miamigov.com
File Number: 9113 Final Action Date: 7/22/2021
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING
APPENDIX "B", TITLED "WATERFRONT WALKWAY DESIGN
GUIDELINES", OF ORDINANCE NO. 13114, THE ZONING ORDINANCE
OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED; MAKING FINDINGS;
CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board ("PZAB"), at its meeting on May
19, 2021, following an advertised public hearing, adopted Resolution No. PZAB-R-21-027 by a
vote of eight to zero (8-0), Item No. PZAB.2, recommending approval of the Zoning Text
Change as stated herein; and
WHEREAS, on October 22, 2009, the City Commission adopted Ordinance No. 13114
as the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Miami ("Miami 21 Code"); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. R-07-0290 adopted on May 24, 2007, the City
Commission approved, in principle, the Miami Parks and Public Spaces Master Plan, which
establishes goals and objectives for waterfronts throughout the City of Miami ("City") to be part
of a linear park system network that links different parts of the City together; and
WHEREAS, on May 10, 2001, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. R-01-440
which accepted, in principle, the Miami River Greenway Action Plan as a planning tool for the
future development and preservation of the Miami River Greenway Study area; and
WHEREAS, on January 24, 2019, the City Commission adopted Ordinance No. 13804,
amending Article 3, Section 3.11, titled "Waterfront Standards", of the Miami 21 Code to provide
additional clarification to applicable boundaries and standards associated with the term
Waterfronts and to identify location standards for Waterways and Waterbodies in the City; and
WHEREAS, on October 7, 2019, the Miami River Commission adopted a unanimous
resolution supporting the draft "Miami Baywalk & Miami Riverwalk Unifying Design Elements &
Waterfront Design Guidelines" proposed by the Miami Downtown Development Authority of the
City of Miami, Florida ("Miami DDA"), which forms the basis of the proposed zoning Text
Change as stated herein; and
WHEREAS, it has been identified that amendments to Appendix "B" of the Miami 21
Code will result in a clear cohesive vision for the design and construction of the City's
Waterfront walkway; and
WHEREAS, enhancements to the City's waterfront walkway will provide
interconnectedness and mobility opportunities from surrounding recreation spaces and provide
residents and visitors with additional and enhanced access to waterfronts; and
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
WHEREAS, the proposed design guidelines will improve safety through lighting
standards which will deter crime and create a more welcoming environment; and
WHEREAS, the proposed design guidelines will promote structures which will provide for
mitigation of future sea level rise and will decrease loads on the City's existing stormwater
system; and
WHEREAS, upon adoption of this Ordinance, the Planning Department will continue to
guide enhancements to Waterfront design standards to be applied to properties along all
waterfronts; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission has considered the Planning Director's
recommendations; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission has conducted a public hearing on the proposed
Zoning Text Change stated herein; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission has considered whether the proposed Zoning Text
Change will further the goals, objectives, and policies of the Miami Comprehensive
Neighborhood Plan ("MCNP"), the Miami 21 Code, and other applicable City regulations; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission has considered the need and justification for the
proposed Zoning Text Change, including changed or changing conditions that make the
passage of the proposed Zoning Text Change necessary;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The recitals and finding contained in the Preamble to this Ordinance are
adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Section.
Section 2. Appendix "B" of the Miami 21 Code is hereby amended in the following
particulars:
"Appendix B — Waterfront Design Guidelines
General Principles
Public access waterfront walkways shall•
1. Feel public. No one should feel as if he or she is intruding on private property. The
public should feel welcome and at ease to move along the entire length of the waterfront.
Signage should clearly establish the public's right to use the walkway.
2. Be usable. Young and old, handicapped and joggers, lovers, fishermen, busine-s and
men and women, everyone should find the waterfront usable. Potential conflicts between
active and passive users should be prevented through segregation of waterfront walk
use zones. (See Design Standards below).
3. Provide visual acce-s. The attraction is the water. All landscaping, furniture, lighting,
guard rails and planters should be subordinated to enhance maximum visibility to the
water. Simplicity of design is preferred. The views of adjacent private development
should not be obstructed.
/1. Enhance visual quality. Parking and service areas must be completely screened from
the walkway. Materials, color and forms should complement the natural shoreline
environment.
walkways, shopping areas, and publicly accessible plazas should connect to the
waterfront.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
6. Take advantage of waterfront setting. Where practical, boating and fishing activities
chould be incorporated into waterfront dcsigns. Elevated viewing areas, historically
interpretive markers and signs are desirable. Boat access from the water to the land is
encouraged.
Section 1: Goals and Intent
1.1 Background
In 1979, the City of Miami's voters amended Section 3(mm)(ii) of the City Charter with the "Dan
Paul Ordinance" which requires new Buildings to be set back from the water's edge and to
provide public access along Biscayne Bay and the Miami River. Section 3.11 of this Code titled
"Waterfront Standards" further clarifies how public and private owners are required to build and
maintain an approximate 25-foot Waterfront Walkway open to the public. This Appendix will
provide guidelines and the Waterfront Materials Index will provide specifications to create a
cohesive Riverwalk and Baywalk experience for those using the walkways.
1.2 Goals and General Principles
a. Guide the overall vision for completion of the Miami Riverwalk, Baywalk, and other trails
to establish a system of pedestrian -oriented connected public spaces with an
established identity and character.
b. Create a more resilient waterfront which provides space and opportunities to
accommodate potential flooding from both stormwater and sea -level rise through
sustainable practices.
c. Establish a vibrant, active, high -quality, linear open space system that celebrates the
City's waterfront identity and promotes civic art, educational, and cultural activities.
d. Create a unified and continuous promenade experience along the City's waterfront,
through the integration of consistent design components and complementary publicly
oriented improvements.
e. Increase mobility options and connectivity to the adjacent neighborhoods linking civic
institutions, parks, plazas, landmarks, greenways, and water -related activities and
amenities.
f. Establish and reinforce strong visual and physical connections towards the Miami
Baywalk & Riverwalk showcasing the City's ecology.
Bulkheads or S awalls
Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD). Bulkheads and seawalls constructed on properties south of
the Rickenbacker Causeway and on Biscayne Bay shall be constructed six (6) feet above
NGVD. All other bulkheads locatcd in thc City of Miami shall mcct thc minimum Miami Dadc
County Standards.
2. Bulkheads or Seawalls shall be constructed eighteen (18) to twenty four (24) inches in width
at the t„p and meet all City „f Miami dcpartmcnts' rcquircments. The top of the bulkhead or
seawall shall be at a constant elevation for the length of the bay / river walk.
3. Deviations to the requirements may be granted by the Director of Public Works to construct
bulkheads or seawalls at a height other than the standard NGVD set by the City due to a
justifiable request. Any deviations from the City standard bulkhead elevation where a waterfront
walkway is being proposed would require the property owner to construct, on thc applicant's
preper4y, a connecting transition at a consistent A D A compliant width and grade to the
bulkhead elevation shall be made in writing to the Director of Public Works and shall include all
appropriatc architcctural and cngincering or other documentation needed to make a
determination.
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Natural Shorelines
1. Walkways along a natural shoreline or rip rap shoreline may be set back from the edge of the
shoreline and meander within the waterfront setback area
2. Areas with natural shorelines must transition to adjacent properties in elevation and alignment
to create a cohesive baywalk or riverwalk circulation.
Design Standards for Bulkheads or Seawall
1. The top of the bulkhead or seawall shall be at a constant elevation for the length of the
waterfront. It shall be eighteen (18) to twenty four (2/1) inches wide at the top.
2. Safety ladders of stainless steel or galvanized steel shall be placed a maximum of 100 feet
apart along thc facc of thc seawall or bulkhead, to allow for climbing out of the water at low tide.
3. The top of the seawall/bulkhead shall be six (6) to eight (8) inches higher than the surface of
the adjacent bay walk or riverwalk safety zone.
/1 . The inside edge of the seawall/bulkhead shall be beveled.
Design Standards for Waterfront Walkways
Waterfront walkway landscaped areas should be landscaped with native plant materials. Shade
groundcovers (low level plantings) should be planted at the base of trees and palms to enhance
waterfront walkway aesthetics and to help buffer the walkway perimeters. The following
landward towards thc private property. NOTE: the top of the bulkhead cap shall be six (6") to
Section 2: Applicability and General Requirements
2.1 Applicability
a. Appendix B shall apply to all properties along Waterways as identified in Diagram 1 of
Section 3.11 of this Code as well as those meeting criteria described in Section 3.11.b.1.
b. Adaptively reused properties fronting Waterways that introduce new Residential,
Lodging, Office, Recreational, or Commercial uses shall incorporate Waterfront
walkways within the limits created by existing structures.
c. Miami River greenways are required as an alternative path when industrial uses prevent
waterfront pathways pursuant to the Waterfront Design Standards.
d. The Planning Director, or designee, administers design guidelines and makes
determinations regarding requests for deviations from standards pursuant to Section
3.11.b.6.
2.2 General Requirements
a. Setbacks and dimensions are measured from the mean high-water line as defined by
Florida Statute (typically the waterside face of a seawall).
b. Waterfront walkways shall feel public and shall be open to public access during all times,
but at a minimum shall remain open to the public between 6:00 A.M. through 10:00 P.M.
c. The public should feel welcome and at ease to move along the entire length of the
waterfront. No one should feel, or be made to feel, as if he or she is intruding on private
property.
d. Signage should clearly establish the public's right to use the walkway.
e. Waterfront walkways shall provide unobstructed visual access to the water.
f. Waterfront walkways shall connect to abutting public walkways, parks, transit stops,
thoroughfares, publicly -accessible midblock walkways, publicly accessible plazas,
neighboring walkways, and other publicly -accessible Open Spaces to allow clear
pedestrian circulation along the water's edge.
1 When waterfront setback requirements are reduced pursuant to Section 3.11.a. and
sites are too narrow for full implementation of design guidelines, priority is given to:
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
1. Safety: by preserving the safety zone or providing an alternative safety barrier
such as curb and railing.
2. Pedestrian circulation: by preserving the minimum 12-foot-wide circulation zone.
3. Pedestrian comfort: by providing shade for pedestrians.
h. Bulkheads / Seawalls shall be constructed pursuant to the requirements found in
Chapter 29, Article III of the City Code including the ability to raise walls in the future.
i. The top elevation of bulkheads, seawalls, or other barriers shall be pursuant to the
requirements of Section 29-89 of the City Code except those fronting the Miami River
which shall be set in accordance with Section 54-46(2) of the City Code.
L Natural / Living Shorelines
1. Walkways along a natural shoreline or rip rap shoreline may be set back from
the edge of the shoreline and meander within the waterfront setback area.
2. Areas with natural shorelines must transition to adjacent properties in elevation
and alignment to comply with circulation standards in Appendix B, Section 3.3.
3. Properties with natural shorelines must provide flood protection equivalent to
requirements in Chapter 29, Article III of the City Code via berm, wall, or similar
elements to protect rights of way and adjacent properties from flooding. Flood
barriers may be setback from the shoreline if the natural area may safely
accommodate flooding.
k. In efforts to provide more natural elements and better integration of Civic Space design
and programming for Waterfront walkways into CS and T1 Transect Zones and
properties that volunteer to participate in the Waterfront Edge Design Guideline
("WEDG") program, standards may be adjusted by process of Waiver but shall not
diminish the Circulation Zone identified within Section 3 with clear path no less than
fifteen (15) feet in total width provided. Nor shall WEDG participation negate the
requirements of Chapter 29 of the City Code to protect neighboring properties or public
right-of-ways from flooding.
1. WEDG is a credit system and series of guidelines beyond Appendix B, which are
the result of a collaboration between government agencies, not -for -profit
organizations, technical experts, and other waterfront stakeholders. This is a tool
to guide and enhance projects on a voluntary basis. WEDG distills the
complexities of waterfront science, engineering, and social engagement into
comprehensive and easy to communicate design concepts and best practices.
Where appropriate, new Developments may participate in the WEDG program to
receive project certification that accomplishes waterfront resiliency, ecology, and
accessibility beyond the standards required within Appendix B.
2.3 General Frontage Requirements
a. Waterfronts shall be Primary Frontages with parking, non -habitable structures, utilities,
service, and loading areas screened from the walkway pursuant to Section 3.3 of the
Miami 21 Code. However, Facades may be set back from the waterfront Principal
Frontage line when there is an active use adjacent to the walkway.
b. For adjacent uses that serve the public (i.e. restaurants, shops, hotels, entertainment,
etc.), the provision of wide, visible, and easy pedestrian access to the waterfront shall be
required.
c. Security to limit public access to private property outside the Waterfront walkway
footprint may be provided by fences, grade changes, or retaining walls. All fences, walls,
and grade changes shall be buffered by landscaped elements or artistic treatments
approved by the Planning Director to reduce negative visual impacts on walkways but
shall not screen the waterfront from adjacent active uses.
2.4 General Connection Requirements
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a. Pursuant to Section 3.11.a.3 of the Miami 21 Code, Side Setbacks shall be equal in
aggregate to twenty-five percent (25%) to allow public access to the Waterfront.
b. Consistent with Sections 5.5.1 and 5.6.1 of the Miami 21 Code, connections shall be a
maximum of 340' apart when access to a public path or Thoroughfare is possible.
c. Connections through private property shall be a Civic Space Type pursuant to Article 4,
Table 7 of the Miami 21 Code, though pedestrian passages may be as narrow as ten
(10) feet.
d. Connections may substitute a combined passenger vehicle and pedestrian access point
for the Civic Space type with the following conditions:
1. No vehicular access shall be permitted within the required building setback area
for all properties except those located in a D3 Transect Zone.
2. A minimum 10' wide contiguous pedestrian -only path from the right-of-way to the
Waterfront walkway is provided in addition to the vehicular path.
3. The connection shall have frequent doors and windows.
e. Connections shall use signage, hardscape, and plant material consistent with Waterfront
Materials Index or equivalents approved by the Planning Director.
f. Properties abutting a Thoroughfare or Public Frontage (i.e. a bridge or street) shall
coordinate with the appropriate agencies regarding improvements and connections to
Waterfront walkways required on those properties.
g_ Thoroughfares that terminate on the water's edge should be improved as a Play Street,
maintaining View Corridors and creating direct connections between the walkways and
the Thoroughfare network pursuant to Section 35-5 of the City Code and Article 4, Table
7.k of the Miami 21 Code.
Safety Buffer Zonc
Safety Buffer Zone A minimum three (3) to four (1) foot wide area adjacent to the bulkhead.
ds are
provided . )
1. Since railings, walls and/or other barriers are not desirable along the water's edge,
waterfront users need to be warned when coming close to the water with a minimum
three (3) foot wide safety buffer zone consisting of a rough textured surface that
discourages walking.
2. Paving within the safety buffer zone shall be a type of cobble stone with "river rock,"
approximatcly 314 to 1 12 inchcs in diamcter, set in concrete leaving a relief of 'V4 to 'l2
inches or similar aggregate pavers with ADA domes.
3. Planting beds shall be a minimum four (4) feet wide with trees or palms planted at
grade providing shade to pedestrians and low level plantings provided at the base of the
trees or palms. Landscape lighting may be provided to accentuatc trccs or palms in this
area.
/1. In areas between the planting bcds, a minim, �m three (3) foot wide uniform exposed
aggrcgatc finish such as a rivcr rock textured surface shall be provided to warn
5. Bollard lighting within the textured surface adjacent to the Circulation Zone shall be
installed to provide pedestrian / pathway lighting.
Circulation Zonc
Circulation Zone A minimum fifteen (15) to sixteen (16) foot wide unobstructed linear
pedestrian walkway. (See Plan Detail 15' minimum where adjacent plantings are pro„ided in
the Safety Zone, 16' minimum where there are no plantings in the Safety Zone.)
1. The waterfront circulation zone shall consist of a linear pedestrian walkway or
promenade and shall be a minimum fifteen (15) feet wide.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
of the walkway shall not exceed six (6) feet and be spaced not less than fifty (50) feet
apart.
3. Obstructions to movement (trees, bollards, lighting, etc.) within the circulation zone
4. The Circulation Zone shall be constructed of non -slip paving materials with high
5. Variable textures and materials may be used to surface the promenade.
handicapped persons throughout the entire length of the waterfront.
Passive Zone
plantings, site furniture, lighting and accessories.
inland side of the waterfront and shall be not less than three (3) feet wide
2. Short lengths of the passive zone may be elevated eighteen (18) to twenty four (2/1)
inches above the level of the promenade for enhanced bay and river views.
of the water.
to this zone. All furniture shall be permanently installed preferably by direct burial in
concrete.
5. Accessories include benches, trash receptacles, drinking fountains, pedestrian scale
light poles and landscape lighting. Appropriate additional furniture including overhead
canopies or shelters, drinking fountains, etc., shall be confined to the passive zone.
6. The passive zone may be paved in plain concrete or the paver on the main circulation
zone.
Transition and Sccurity Zono
Zone to buffer private development from the waterfront walkway and collect stormwater.
1. To buffer private development from the adjacent waterfront a minimum three (3) foot
wide transition zone shall border the waterfront facility.
2. This visual and functional transition from public to private space shall generally be
marked by low level shrubbery and overhead shade or ornamental trees.
3. Security to limit public access to private propert„ ma,, be pro„ided by fences grade
visual impact on the walkway.
/1. For adjacent developments that serve the public (i.e., restaurants, shops, hotels,
cntcrtainmcnt, ctc.) provision of wide, visiblc and asy pcdcstrian access to the
waterfront shall be assured.
5. In general, landscaping and security barriers shall not visually screen the waterfront
from adjacent active uses, such as retail restaurants, or entertainment.
Section 3: Zones
3.1 General - Walkway typologies are composed of zones including Seawall Zone, Safety Buffer
Zone, Circulation Zone, and Passive Zone. Each individual zone shall serve its specific role as
described within this Section.
3.2 Seawall Zone
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
a. The top of the bulkhead / seawall shall be at a constant elevation for the length of the
waterfront.
b. The top of bulkheads / seawalls shall be a minimum of eighteen (18) inches and a maximum
of twenty-four (24) inches in width.
c. Safety ladders of marine grade stainless steel or aluminum shall be placed a maximum of
100 feet apart along the face of the bulkhead / seawall to allow for climbing out of the water
at low tide.
d. The inside edge of the seawall / bulkhead shall be beveled pursuant to the illustration below.
e. The top of the seawall / bulkhead shall be designed pursuant to selected typology in
Appendix B, Section 4.
f. Vertical flexibility which improves access to the water for purposes of providing boat or
kayak launching or access is possible pursuant to the provisions in Appendix B, Section 5.
g_ Bulkheads / seawalls shall meet all requirements consistent with Chapter 29, Article III and
Section 54-46 (2) of the City Code.
h. Deviations to the requirements may be granted by the Director of the Department of
Resilience and Public Works pursuant to the requirements in Chapter 29 of the City Code.
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1: Seawall cap and safety buffer zone with hardscape installation, (planting is also permitted).
3.3 Safety Buffer Zone - Area adjacent to the seawall.
a. The Safety Buffer Zone shall be designed in accordance with the selected typology.
b. The surface of the Safety Buffer Zone shall be 6" minimum below the top of bulkhead /
seawall.
c. Paving within the Safety Buffer Zone shall be river rock, approximately 0.75 to 1.5 inches
in diameter, set in concrete leaving a relief of 0.25 to 0.5 inches or similar aggregate
pavers with ADA domes.
d. Planting beds shall be a minimum five (5) feet wide with trees or palms planted at grade
and low-level plantings provided at the base of the trees or palms.
e. Planting beds may be narrower (minimum three (3) feet wide) if permeable pavers
provide air and water to soil.
f. In areas between the planting beds, a minimum of three (3) feet wide uniform exposed
aggregate of river rock textured surface shall be provided.
e Landscape lighting shall be provided to accentuate trees or palms in this area.
h. Low-level lighting (i.e. bollard, wall, or furnishing mounted) within the area adjacent to
the Circulation Zone shall be installed to provide pedestrian / pathway lighting.
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3.4 Circulation Zone — Unobstructed linear pedestrian walkways.
a. The circulation zone shall be designed in accordance with typologies shown in Appendix
B, Section 4.
b. The circulation zone shall be constructed of non -slip paving materials with high aesthetic
appearance and structural qualities pursuant to Appendix B, Section 6.3.
c. The walkway surface shall be accessible to disabled persons throughout the entire
length of the waterfront and comply with ADA standards.
d. The walkway may meander along the shoreline; however, all offsets in the alignment of
the walkway shall not exceed ten (10) feet and be spaced not less than fifty (50) feet
apart pursuant to Appendix B, Section 5.
e. Obstructions to movement (trees, bollards, lighting, etc.) within the circulation zone shall
not reduce the clear width of the walkway to less than fifteen (15) feet at any point
except in Typology 5 and Typology 6, where each walkway may be reduced to no less
than eight (8) feet.
3.5 Transition/Passive Zone — Area interspersed with shade trees, low level plantings, seating,
lighting, and other furnishings.
a. The transition/passive zone shall be designed in accordance with the selected typology.
b. Accessories such as benches, trash receptacles, bicycle racks, drinking fountains,
pedestrian scale light poles and landscape lighting, drinking fountains, etc. shall be
confined to the passive zone.
c. Accessories shall be located so that no elements shall impede the circulation zone when
in use i.e. benches shall be set back to accommodate users' limbs and bike racks
located that attached bicycles do not obstruct circulation.
Section 4: Walkway Typologies
This Section presents guidelines for how promenade design components such as circulation
paths, lighting, planting, public art, water access, and seating can be configured to provide
continuous circulation, create a unified identity while promoting diversity of experience.
Walkway typologies are intended to allow flexibility in spatial configurations, reflecting, and
adapting to adjacent conditions along the seawall, shoreline, public open space, and private
development. Spacing regarding furnishings and landscape may either be at maximums shown
in illustrations or based on performance and utility as described in Sections 6 and 7. The
promenade shall have the following configurations:
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4.1. Typology 1: Central Walk - where the walk is framed by landscape elements.
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4.2. Typology 2: Outside Walk with Bioswale - same as Typology 2 with bioswale in place of
detectable river rock.
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4.3. Typology 3: Inside Walk - where the open or green space is adjacent to the water and the
walk is on the opposite side.
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City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
4.4. Typology 4: Meandering Walk - a combination of the typologies where the main pedestrian
path meanders away from the water and back towards it repetitively. (Overall walkway
dimensions remain twenty-five feet (25')).
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4.5. Typology 5: Split Walk - the walk is split into two and green space is in the center to allow
for bikers and pedestrians to be separate or to create two different experiences: one facing the
water and one facing the City.
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4.6. Typology 6: Split Walk with Bioswale - same as Typology 6 with a bioswale in place of
detectable river rock.
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4.7. Typology 7: Amenity Walk - similar to the Central Walk where the detectable river rock has
been removed and the seawall has been raised to create a seating bench. Additional seating
shall be provided in the form of half donut stone benches wrapping palm trees every fifty feet
(50').
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4.8 Typology 8: On -Street Greenway layout shall create enhanced paths between waterfront
segments.
a. Sidewalks on the waterside shall be a minimum of eight feet (8') clear and shall be
broom -finished with integral colored concrete LM Scofield C-12 (Mesa Beige) or
approved equivalent.
b. Sidewalks on the waterside should meet minimum standards to qualify as an FDOT
standard shared -use path whenever space permits.
c. Street furnishings
1. Lighting: FPL decorative package
2. Benches: Landscape Forms Plainwell bench or approved equivalent with
Greenway custom medallion with a minimum of one (1) bench per block on both
sides of the street.
3. Trash receptacles: Landscape Forms Plainwell receptacle or approved
equivalent with a minimum of two (2) per intersection.
4. Bicycle rack: Landscape Forms Pi rack or approved equivalent at a five hundred
feet (500') minimum spacing.
5. Signage per the Design Standards.
d. Landscape
1. Shall be a continuous verge with continuous shade trees except at intersections
where palms are permitted.
2. Landscape verge shall be seven feet (7') wide except when interrupted to allow
for street furnishings or pedestrian access to crosswalks.
e. Crosswalks on watersides connecting to Greenway shall incorporate colored concrete
crosswalks, accent planting at corners, and wayfinding markers on the greenway side.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
1: Typical cross section for sixty feet (60) wide right of way.
2: Typical cross section for fifty feet (50) wide right of way.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
3: Typical cross section for forty foot (40) wide rights of way.
Section 5: Transitions
Section 5.1 Horizontal Transitions between Typologies
Transition areas will be eight (8) to fifteen (15) feet wide where the width of the transition area
(A) is equal to the width of the connecting path (B). See graphic below for transition types
between the promenade typologies.
New sections of the path shall transition seamlessly with existing sections, this may be achieved
through a variety of design configurations, maintaining a continuous circulation path.
Transninn. I
Transition between Typology 2 (East -side
walk) and Typology 4 (West -side walk).
Width of A and B shall be equal.
Transition 2
Transition between Typology 6 (Spilt walk)
and Typologies 2 or 4 (East -side or West -side
walk). Width of A and B shall be equal.
Trnnstbnn
Transition between Typ010gy 6 (Split
walk) and Typ616gy 1 (Central walk).
Width of A and B Seall be equal.
0 E' 16' 92.
SCALE: 1116" =1`.0
A proposed example of the typology transition will be implemented at the River Landing
development on the Miami River.
1: Examples of horizontal transitions between Typologies.
Section 5.2 Vertical Transitions
City of Miami
File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
a. Upland vertical transitions are permitted to aid circulation and visual connection between
properties with high finished floor levels due to flood conditions and the public waterfront
walkway.
b. Generally, vertical transitions may take place by having different zones at differing
elevations and may have gradual grade changes along the path of travel to ease
transitions from properties to the waterfront.
1. The Safety Buffer Zone must be lower than seawall to function as a curb.
2. The Circulation Zones or Zone edges may be higher or lower than adjacent
zones.
(a) The Circulation Zone Path may slope in direction of travel but may not be
so steep as to qualify as a ramp pursuant to ADA guidelines
3. The Passive Zone may be higher than the Circulation Zone.
(a) Seating walls and retaining walls are permitted though the Passive Zone
must screen vertical portions of the private property.
(b) The Passive Zone may slope but may not drain onto circulation zones.
16'
USE
MEL
25' -f- 5'- 15' 3'
TRANSITION CAUSAL IONZOtE SAFETY
PASSIVE PLANING
ZONE
25' . 25'
0 a
SEAWALL
WATER
16'
2: Example of vertical transitions between and within zones which may be applied to all Typologies.
c. Waterside vertical transitions are appropriate to improve access to the water.
1. Penetrations through a seawall to accommodate boat access may occur if they
are protected by deployable flood barriers and a barrier operations and storage
plan are provided.
2. Public vessel access or launch points may be provided with multiple typologies.
All materials at lower portions shall be anchored and flood resistant.
3. When Typologies 6 and 7 are used, a portion of the Circulation Zone may be
lower to improve water access.
(a) Circulation zones shall be maintained with clear width and Public access.
(b) ADA compliant access shall be maintained including multiple ramps when
appropriate.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
VI MIN1dIMUM
�I OF
CIRCULATION
ZONE
UPLANDOF
CURRENT
SEAWALL
ELEVATION
-- MIN1d
CINCULAT10N
10,E
AREA BELOW CURRENT l>,1
SEAWALL ELEVATION: 1
TO BE BUILT WITH 1
FLOOD RESISTENT
MATERIALS.
I.E. MUDSET PAVERS,
FLOOD RESISTENT 1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS, 1
AND INUNDATION 1
TOLERANT PLANT
MATERIAL.
BELOW GRADE
HYDRAULIC BARRIER
REQUIRED BETWEEN
ZONES.
MINI' — MINN'
CFRGVLATION s FFri,
ZONE ZONE
25'
CURRENT SEAWALL ELEVATION
/A 1979 SEAWALL
HEIGHT
(3.5' OR 4' NAVD)
3:Example of Type 6 or 7 pathways with split elevations.
16'
•
LOWER VESSEL
ACCESS LEVEL
MAY BE
INTEGRATED
WITH MULTIPLE
TYPOLOGIES.
.' 25'
CIR;CULATIIX.'
ZONE .. /ONO
2r—,
25'
4: Example of vessel access level.
STEPS AND/OR
RAMP MAY BE
PROVIDED FOR
VESSEL ACCESS
PROVIDED
OVERALL FLOOD
PROTECTION IS
MAINTAINED.
VESSEL ACCESS OR
LAUNCH LEVEL
Standards and Guidelines for Dcsign Elcmcnt)
Landscaping
1. Palms may be used along either edge of the waterfront, but Coconut Palms or Sabal
DaImc are particularly appropriate for the water'n edge
2. Raised planters, if used, shall be confined to the pa-sive zonc, and all plantcr walls
shall double as sitting wane Fifteen (15) to thirty (30) inches in height.
3. Plant material shall be primarily native salt tolerant species.
Section 6: Landscape Elements
6.1 General Requirements
a. Landscaped areas should be landscaped with plant materials listed in the Waterfront
Materials Index. Shade trees are required within the Passive Zone and may also be
planted along the Safety Buffer Zone in lieu of palms to create an allee of trees. Shrubs,
low shrubs, and groundcovers (low level plantings) should be planted at the base of
trees and palms to enhance waterfront walkway aesthetics and to help buffer the
walkway perimeters.
b. Landscape elements shall not obstruct pedestrian circulation paths.
c. Landscape design shall provide a consistent selection of landscape elements to unify
the visual experience and contribute to the waterfront's ecological character.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
d. No planting material shall be used that is classified as prohibited, controlled, or invasive
by either State, County, or Local agencies.
e. All planting areas shall have low-water use/high efficiency irrigation systems, such as
drip irrigation, low -trajectory irrigation nozzles, automatic shut -offs, and equipped with
soil moisture and/or rain sensors to regulate water use pursuant to the requirements set
forth in Section 22.5-75 of the City Code, Miami -Dade County regulations, or South
Florida Water Management District regulations, whichever is most restrictive.
f. Raised planters, if used, and all planter walls may double as seating walls when greater
than fifteen (15) and less than thirty (30) inches in height above adjacent surface and
greater than fifteen (15) inches in depth.
6.2 Tree and Palm Requirements
a. Trees and palms shall be installed within the Passive and Safety Zones pursuant to the
selected typology.
b. Trees and Palms shall provide a minimum of fifty percent (50%) immediate shade
coverage with one hundred (100%) shade coverage within five (5) years.
c. Trees and palms shall be planted to establish a unified canopy for visual unity and
pedestrian comfort.
d. Trees and palms shall be a minimum of fourteen feet (14') in height and have a minimum
of nine feet (9') clear trunk at installation.
e. Tree and palm selection shall be confined to the list in the Waterfront Materials Index
and ninety percent (90%) of total quantity of trees and palms used shall be native or fifty
percent (50%) of total trees and palms used shall be native if using Coconut Palms.
f. If one hundred (100%) shade coverage is demonstrated via diagrams, flexibility
regarding tree and palms spacing is permitted.
g_ Trees and palms shall be selected for their proven resiliency, particularly for high wind
and salt tolerance.
h. Large canopy shade trees and palm trees shall take priority over waterfront views
between ten (10) and forty (40) feet above the seawall elevation.
i. Avoid trees and palms with known pests and diseases that increase pesticide
requirements.
L At grade planters for medium to large trees shall be a minimum of sixty (60) square feet
with a minimum width dimension of five (5) feet.
k. At grade planters for palms and small trees shall be a minimum of thirty (30) square feet
with a minimum width dimension of four (4) feet.
I. Provide adequate root zone space for trees.
1. Root zones must have uncompacted soil with access to air and water.
2. Either planting beds or porous pavements allow access to air and water.
3. Provide uncompacted soil volume in the following volumes:
Mature Tree Size
Soil Volume (max. depth of 3.5')
SMALL - Height: <30'
300 ft3
MEDIUM - Height or Spread: >30' and
1,200 ft3
<50'
LARGE - Height or Spread: >50'
1,800 ft3
When soil is shared between trees
25% reduction allowed
4. When root zones are under paving, paving must be supported to allow for
uncompacted soil.
(a) Custom support systems, structural soils, or suspended systems may
support paving.
(b) Support system components do not apply to soil volume calculation (i.e.,
structural portion of structural soil or suspension system components).
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
m. Structural Cells shall be provided under paving when large trees are specified in planters
less than 100 square feet and further than twelve (12) feet from adjacent, continuous
green space areas.
n. Root barriers shall be installed at pavement edges where large trees and palms are
specified.
Section A: Stormwater Storage
16'
StoramwMar Storage
ROolspsre syslsm rf:iSl�i'�:� �r Rootspera system
Section B: Structural Soil Cells
6.3 Shrubs, Ground Cover, Mulch, and Soil Requirements
Shrubs and groundcover selection shall be planted to establish visual unit and
accentuate water views.
b. Landscape elements shall be installed within the Passive and Safety Zones pursuant to
the selected typology.
c. Shrubs and groundcover selection shall consist of a minimum of eighty percent (80%)
native species and be salt and drought -tolerant pursuant to the list in the Waterfront
Materials Index.
d. Salt -tolerant turf shall be provided in areas intended for recreation or gathering.
e. All planting beds shall be covered with a minimum of three inches (3") of shredded
Melaleuca, Grade B, or eucalyptus mulch. Cypress mulch shall not be permitted.
f. Planting soil shall be pursuant to the Waterfront Materials Index.
g_ Minimum Vegetated Area
1. Typology 1: 24%
2. Typology 2: 30%
3. Typology 3: 38%
4. Typology 4: 35%
5. Typology 5: 20%
6. Typology 6: 30%
7. Typology 7: 30%
a.
SOII C0119
WATER
Section 7: Hardscape Elements
7.1 Hardscape
a. Hardscape shall create a unified visual and tactile feel throughout the walkway with
seamless transitions between properties.
b. Hardscape materials shall primarily include materials commonly used in marine
environments such as concrete pavers, stone pavers, and river rock consistent with the
Waterfront Materials Index.
c. Hardscape materials should utilize neutral colors, primarily gray and sand with natural
aggregates, such as marble chips and seashells.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
d. Permeable Hardscape materials shall be used to reduce stormwater utility infrastructure
and promote the filtration and collection of stormwater consistent with the Waterfront
Materials Index.
e. Hardscape should have a low reflectance albedo (minimum 0.3 factor) to reduce glare
and heat absorption to decrease the heat-island effect.
f. Concrete with salt finish or shell aggregate should be used in steps adjacent to the
water.
g_ Hardscape shall be laid in a running bond pattern for pedestrian areas and herringbone
in areas where vehicular use is required for emergency access.
h. River rock, mortared, shall be used as a detectable paver for the waterfront edge and
around benches for protection against skateboards, consistent with the selected
typology.
i. In proposed playground areas, poured -in -place rubberized play surface and artificial turf
may be utilized.
Lighting
1. Lighting at the water's edge shall be confined to eight (8) inch diameter bollards,
which shall be twenty four (2/1) to thirty (30) inches high and spaced approximately
twenty (20) feet on center.
2. Bollards shall be one hundred (100) watt MV with down illumination not extending
beyond the bulkhead line.
3. Overhead lighting shall be confined to the passive zone and consists of down lighting
with lamps not over fourteen (1'1) feet high, 175 watt MV, and spaced approximately fifty
{50) feet on center.
/1. Up lighting of landscaping is encouraged.
5. Mercury vapor, metal halide lamps or similar "white" light luminaires shall be used.
6. Colored lighting, except for private signs, shall not be used.
7. Simple contemporary fixture design shall be used ac-e{pesed to highly stylized,
vintage-e e1ied-designs.
Section 8: Furnishing Elements
8.1 Lighting
a. Lighting shall be provided in accordance with the selected typology and shall attain safe
and appropriate foot-candle necessary for pedestrian mobility, consistent with the
Waterfront Materials Index.
b. All proposed lighting elements shall be consistent with the fixture design specifications in
the Waterfront Materials Index.
c. Overhead lighting shall be confined to the zone identified by the proposed typology.
d. Landscape up -lighting shall be provided to accentuate trees, palms, and other landscape
elements.
8.2 Seating
a. Seating shall be confined to the Passive and Safety Zones pursuant to the selected
typology.
b. Seating materials shall be consistent with the Waterfront Materials Index fixture design
specifications and may be provided through a variety of movable, fixed, seat/retaining
walls or terraced steps.
c. Seating shall be provided at a minimum of one (1) linear foot of seating for every twenty
(20) feet of Frontage along the water.
d. Distance between seating shall be no greater than fifty (50) feet or as identified pursuant
to the typology.
e. All seating areas shall emphasize direct water views.
8.3 Amenities
City of Miami
File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
a. Bicycle parking shall be provided at a minimum of one (1) space per every one hundred
(100) feet of frontage and shall be consistent with the Appendix in the Waterfront
Materials Index and may be waived if similar facilities are already provided within the
vicinity.
b. Water fountains may be provided and shall be consistent with the fixture design
standards in the Waterfront Materials Index and may be waived if similar facilities are
already provided within the vicinity.
c. Waste receptacles shall be provided at a minimum of one (1) per every one hundred fifty
(150) feet of frontage and shall be consistent with the fixture design standards in the
Waterfront Materials Index and may be waived if similar facilities are already provided
within the vicinity. Waste receptacles are selected with rain covers and removable liners
to conceal waste and allow for easy maintenance. Provide separate, labeled waste
receptacles for garbage and recycling. Receptacles are to be emptied and maintained by
the property owner.
Sig nagc
2. AlI maiar public access rots rc iding park walkwa yc, rn�-oadwaredicated
midblock walks and public plazas, shall be marked with "Public Shore" signs.
3. Adjacent accessible publicly oriented private development, such as cafes or shops,
shall identify the use with signage in the transition zone.
/1. Uniformly designed historic or environmental markers and descriptive plaques shall be
placed in the passive zone.
5. Signage shall identify access points and adjacent activities (cafes, shops, etc.) for
boaters.
8.4 Signage
a. All public access points, including park walkways, roadways, dedicated midblock walks,
and public plazas shall be marked with a District Flag Directional Sign consistent with
the signage standards of the Waterfront Materials Index.
b. District Identity Sign shall be placed at property midpoint consistent with the signage
standards of the Waterfront Materials Index.
c. Adjacent accessible publicly oriented private developments such as cafes or shops shall
identify the use with signage oriented towards the waterfront walkway.
d. Uniformly designed historic or environmental markers and descriptive plaques shall be
placed in the Passive Zone.
e. Signage shall identify access points and adjacent activities (cafes, shops, etc.) for
boaters.
f. Signage shall not be placed within the Circulation Zone.
Refer to Waterfront Materials Index signage standards for full logo usage guidelines.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
Imo_
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ZONE PA "hFG
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IFITO
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AREAS WITH .•
PLANT G BED$
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City of Miami
File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
314
SET I`
GRAD!
EXPOSE.
EQUAL SU".'
STAN DARDS-
1-112' DIAMETER Riv R ROCK
MORTAR BED, UNIFORMLY
WITH A "IW TO 1122'
GGREGATE FINISH OR
ACE MEETIF GA.OJ1.
4#4erlai#kt.
:�
COMPACTED SUBGRADE
DETAIL - SAF ` UFFER ZONE
NOT Ta7G E
BULKHEAD 1 SEAWALL CAP
Section 9: Maintenance
a. In addition to maintenance standards required in Chapters 2, 10, and 22 of the City
Code, the property owner and their successors or assignees shall be responsible for the
continued maintenance of all landscape, hardscape, and furnishing elements, as
provided in the approved site plans and/or approved landscape plans.
b. Landscape shall be maintained to the following standards:
City of Miami
File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025
1. The owner shall be responsible for maintenance and replacement of trees to
maintain one hundred percent (100%) shade coverage over the long-term.
2. Landscape may not impede navigable waters and vegetation and must be
trimmed accordingly.
3. In no case shall grass clippings, vegetative material, or vegetative debris be
washed, swept, or blown off into stormwater drains, ditches, conveyances, water
bodies, wetlands, sidewalks, or roadways. Any material that is accidentally so
deposited shall be immediately removed to the maximum extent practicable as
required by Section 22.5-138 of the City Code.
4. No fertilizer is permitted pursuant to Section 22.5-134 of the City Code."
Section 3. If any section, part of a section, paragraph, clause, phrase, or word of this
Ordinance is declared invalid, the remaining provisions of this Ordinance shall not be affected.
Section 4. It is the intention of the City Commission that the provisions of this
Ordinance shall become and be made a part of the Miami 21 Code, which provisions may
be renumbered or relettered and that the word "ordinance" may be changed to "section",
"article", or other appropriate word to accomplish such intention.
Section 5. This Ordinance shall become effective ten (10) days after approval at second
reading.1
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND CORRECTNESS:
nd" ez, City Httor ey 7/13/2021
1 This Ordinance shall become effective as specified herein unless vetoed by the Mayor within ten (10)
days from the date it was passed and adopted. If the Mayor vetoes this Ordinance, it shall become
effective immediately upon override of the veto by the City Commission or upon the effective date stated
herein. whichever is later.
City of Miami File ID: 9113 (Revision:) Printed On: 5/29/2025