LTC 241-2009 Venetian Causeway Streetscape Improvementsm MIAMIBEACH
orricF of TFIE aTV MANAGER LETTER TO COMMISSION
LTC # eat-2009
TO: Mayo -Matti H~erQre-ra Bower and Members of the City Commission
FROM: Jo~~onzelez~, iMat~g
DATE: September 16. 2009
SUBJECL Venetian Causeway Streetscape Improvements
The purpose of this Letter to Commission is to advise you of forthcoming activities associated
with the Miami-Dade County Public Works Department Venetian Causeway Streetscape
Improvements Project, in anticipation of any inquires from our residents. The project consists of
roadway widening, drainage, sidewalk. lighting, signalization, signage and landscaping
enhancements. The project limits extend from the City of Miami's Biscayne Island towards
Miami Beach's Belle Isle.
All work proposed by the County will occur within the public right-of-way. The County has
confirmed that no demolition of homes or acquisition of private property is contemplated for
project implementation. However, the removal of encroachments, mainly landscaping/
vegetation, is contemplated in order to construct the improvements.
Proposed construction activities consist of increasing the asphalt width to accommodate east-
west bike lanes, as well as sidewalks, on both sides of the Causeway. Therefore, in order to
accommodate the proposed improvements. many of the existing encroachments in the public
right-of-way need to be removed/relocated. Construction activities contemplate the removal of
forty-seven (47) invasive and prohibited species, such as Australian Pines. Banyan Trees,
Brazilian Pepper, Ficus and Seaside Mahoe. They will be replaced with approximately two-
hundred eighty-five (285) species of trees (small shade/large shade/large palm materials). In
addition, twenty-five (25) trees/palms will be relocated within the public right-of-way to
accommodate the proposed work, but will remain relocated within the Venetian Causeway.
The County anticipates construction contract award in mid October, with a Notice to Proceed for
construction in late October. They anticipate construction to begin from the west (Biscayne
Island) and move eastward towards Miami Beach and be complete in approximately twelve (12)
months.
As always, please feel free to call me should you have any questions or require ac~d~tional
information. _
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