June 10 2015 Final Blueways Master PlanCITY OF MIAMI BEACH BLUEWAYS MASTER PLAN FINAL MASTER PLAN BOOKLET MAY 2015
PREPARED FOR:PREPARED BY:Planning and Landscape Architecture Real Estate Advisory Services Coastal, Marina, and Environmental Engineering with funding from Florida Inland Navigation District
Introduction v-xi Site Location 1-3 Community Involvement 4-9 Site Inventory 10-23 Previous Studies 24-29 Site Analysis 30-41 Master Plan 42-49 Focus Areas 50-77 Implementation 76-83 Conclusion 84-85 Appendices 86 • Appendix A: Master Plan Specifications • Appendix B: Signage Specifications • Appendix C: Bench Specifications • Appendix D: Bicycle Rack Specifications Contents
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet iv
A system of canals, rivers, waterways and lakes connected with a similar environmental theme. Connecting people to the water at convenient locations allowing aquatic recreational opportunities and transportation by water within a community.blueways v Introduction
purpose To create a five-year planning document to be used to increase the interaction of residents and tourists with the waterways in and around the City of Miami Beach.City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet vi
goals • To create a sustainable and thriving environment • To revitalize waterfront public spaces • To connect people from land to water • To increase interaction with the water • To encourage healthy lifestyles vii Introduction
Each assignment must begin with a clear understanding of the goals for the development, opportunities and constraints of the site as well as the needs, preferences and habits of the community. After the site analysis, steps are taken to determine development alternatives. Concept diagrams begin to create the vision for the site and the locations of project elements within the site. These conceptual plans are then reviewed by the team, client, community and government agencies, and decisions can then be made. During the next stage, one concept or elements from multiple concepts are selected. This plan is refined and further developed based on feedback gained. The character of the project starts to become more apparent. These factors come together to create the Preliminary Plan. This plan along with additional studies is combined into a cohesive design package.During the next step, an Illustrative Master Plan is created offering more detail, regarding the special characteristics of the development, and specific locations of project elements. This plan and other documents are assembled into a Master Plan Report, including sketches to show the character and theme. Once the Master Plan is completed, the design is taken to various governmental agencies for review and approvals.After agency approvals have been obtained and funding is in place, projects typically enter detailed design phases. The construction documents are then produced and, finally, the construction process begins.P lanning P rocess City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet viii
Technical input is then interpreted into conceptual land use diagrams, reviewed by the team and revised to meet project requirements.The refinement of specific site plans, economic models, character sketches, engineering assumptions and architectural styles are coordinated into a cohesive design package. The Illustrative Master Plan captures the overall vision for development for the project and becomes an important tool to attract potential investors, buyers and operators as well as seek entitlements.Conceptual Master Plan Analysis/Site Reconnaissance (30%)Preliminary Master Plan (60%)Final Master Plan (100%)Each discipline begins its respective analysis to determine development opportunities, constraints and feasibility in the beginning stages. ix Introduction
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet x
Project Kick-off Project Schedule Site Tour Inventory Analysis Conceptual Master Plans Preliminary Master Plan Final Master Plan one two three four five six seven xi Introduction
site location
State of Florida Valdosta Tallahassee Gainesville Jacksonville Orlando Tampa West Palm Beach Fort Lauderdale Miami Miami Beach Coral Gables Pinecrest North Miami Miami Gardens North Miami Beach Hialeah Opa Locka Miami Lakes Miami Springs Miami Beach City Boundary Homestead Miami City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 2
Miami Beach I-195 79th Street Causeway I-95 I-395 Miami City Boundary City of Miami Beach 3 Site Location
community outreach
K ic K -o ff M eeting : a P ril 17, 2014 c o MM unity i n P ut P rocess To add to the team’s knowledge and understanding of the City of Miami Beach’s community and waterways, it is important to engage the community through the use of public workshops.On April 17, 2014, the team participated in a kick-off meeting with the City to review the parameters of the site and the needs and wants from the City.Following the meeting with the City, the team led a community input meeting on June 3, 2014 that was open to residents, business owners and stakeholders from the community. The purpose of this meeting was to further understand the needs of the community, identify key issues and opportunities and receive recommendations from the Miami Beach users. Project Kick-off Community Input Meetings Final Presentation one two three City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 6
c o MM unity i n P ut M eeting #1: J une 3, 2014 c o MM unity i n P ut M eeting #1 n otes An open discussion was held to allow the community the opportunity to express their hopes for the outcome of the plan.At the meeting it was clear the community was mainly concerned about the positive environmental impact of the plan.7 Community Outreach
c o MM unity i n P ut W ord c loud c o MM unity i n P ut W ord c loud c o MM unity f eedbac K s ite d iagra M After gaining some initial feedback from the community during the workshop, we creat -ed a word cloud. This provides a visual that directly relates to the most important wants and needs. Hierarchy in the word cloud is based on the frequency of a topic, idea, or word. From the feedback, it became clear the community is invested in the success of their City and their neighborhoods and had many ideas, suggestions and concerns. The topics that rang out the loudest included:• Access to the water/Accessibility • Inclusion of the Entire Community in accessing the water • Wildlife - Natural Habitats to be increased • Positive Environmental Impacts to be considered • Launch points needed C ro C odile H ole lo C ation n o B e a CC essi B le P ortal , CM d C l i B rary , 75 t H s treet B oardwalk r owing C lu B (M arketing - o P en to t H e P u B li C )n ot e noug H P arking C ity -o wned e MP ty l ot to B e in C luded in study P otential y out H k ayak a CC ess P oint B ea CH w alk u noffi C ial k ayak l aun CH a CC essi B le B ea CH (widest a CC ess on B oardwalk )w aterfront s treet e nd 100’ w ide (P arking at C lu B )P otential a CC ess P oint (P arking n ear B y )C o MM unity f eed B a C k City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 8
c o MM unity i n P ut M eeting #2: a ugust 5, 2014 A second community meeting was held on August 5th, 2014, allowing additional people who were not able to attend the first meeting to find out about the project and for repeat attendees to receive an update. At this meeting initial concepts and ideas were presented, as well as a background of the project as a whole. Following the presentation, members of the community had the opportunity to share ideas, wants and needs with the project team and the City. This valuable feedback was used to influence the final product.c o MM unity i n P ut M eeting #1 n otes 9 Community Outreach
site inventory
c ity of M ia M i b each - n orth e xisting c onditions a erial a reas of interest wit H in t H e n ort H B ea CH distri C t in C lude :1. P arkview P ark a nnex 2. n ort H B ea CH w aterfront s treet e nd 3. n or M andy s H ores P ark 4. n ort H B ea CH P oli C e s u B -s tation 5. B rittany B ay P ark 2 2 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 4 5 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 12
a reas of interest wit H in t H e n ort H and M iddle B ea CH distri C ts in C lude :1. l a g or C e v a C ant C orner 2. l a g or C e s treet e nd 3. n ort H B ay s treet e nd 4. i ndian B ea CH P ark 5. P ine t ree P ark 6. M uss P ark c ity of M ia M i b each - M iddle /n orth e xisting c onditions a erial 1 2 4 3 5 6 13 Site Inventory
a reas of interest wit H in t H e M iddle and s out H B ea CH distri C ts in C lude :1. C H ase a venue P arking l ot 2. i ndian C reek s treet s ide 3. M ount s inai s out H o P en s P a C e 4. l ake P an C oast 5. n ort H B ay s treet e nd 6. s unset l ake 7. C ollins C anal 8. M auri C e g i BB P ark 9. s out H B ea CH s treet e nd c ity of M ia M i b each - M iddle /s outh e xisting c onditions a erial 1 3 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 9 City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 14
a reas of interest wit H in t H e s out H B ea CH distri C t in C lude :1. l in C oln r oad s treet e nd 2. M onu M ent island 3. M ia M i B ea CH M arina 4. s out H P ointe P ark c ity of M ia M i b each - s outh e xisting c onditions a erial 1 2 3 3 4 4 15 Site Inventory
P arkview i sland w aterfront s treet e nd P arkview P ark a nnex e xisting c onditions s ite P hotos On May 8, 2014 and May 12, 2014, the design team participated in a site tour. During the tour, the team was able to visit many of the areas of interest of the Miami Beach Blueways and key locations for accessing the water. The following pages contain photos of some of the sites the team visited during the site tour.This phase of the process aids the team in getting a clearer understanding of the surroundings, witness the use of the spaces and begin to recognize some of the potential opportunities of the sites to be better utilized by the City.City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 16
n or M andy s H ores s treet e nd n ort H B ea CH P oli C e s u B -s tation n or M andy s H ores P ark 17 Site Inventory
n or M andy i sle s treet e nd B rittany B ay P ark s H ane B oating C enter City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 18
M uss P ark l a g or C e v a C ant C orner i ndian B ea CH P ark P ine t ree P ark 19 Site Inventory
C H ase a venue P arking l ot 40 t H s treet and i ndian C reek s treet s ide C ollins C anal 27 t H s treet w aterfront a rea City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 20
M auri C e g i BB P ark M onu M ent i sland 21 Site Inventory
s out H P ointe P ark City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 22
23 Site Inventory
previous studies
M ia M i b each s trategic P lan 2011 u P date W ater t ransit s ervices M arch 2007 r e P ort This document evaluates the City’s efforts in accomplishing its vision, by using metrics such as City-wide community surveys and the US Census to measure how the City is managing its resources and delivering services. Some key areas of interest include:• Cleanliness of the City has improved between the 2005/06 and 2010/11 according to the City-wide survey by 31%. But residents still think that is an important service area. They want to improve the cleanliness of City Right of Ways and beaches.• Successful recreation programs have increased the number of participants in both the teen and senior programs scenes.• Homeless outreach and placement services continue to be a priority. The census count of homeless declined from 314 in 2000 to 177 in January 2011.• 244 Bike racks were installed City-wide between 2009/10 and 2010/11. There is a self-service bike program to improve multi-modal mobility throughout the City.• Intended infrastructure outcomes include enhanced mobility, improved parking availability, well maintained facilities, improved storm drainage City-wide and beach preservation.• Several initiatives were implemented, such as expanding recycling efforts, commingled recycling, City-wide recycling ordinances.The purpose of this document is to create and review a possible water transit plan for Miami-Dade County, which outlines the system’s requirements, the feasibility and estimated ridership, as an alternative for local commuters and an attraction for tourists and visitors. This document also looked at cost and an approach to implement a water transit system.• The South Beach Route was determined to be the most effective initial route.• The system would include three types of terminals, a Central Business District Ferry Terminal, a Suburban Ferry Terminal and a Small Community Ferry Terminal.• Suburban Ferry Terminals are estimated to occupy approximately 1,325 sf, typically accommodate only one ferry and typically include minimal amenities, such as a shelter, seating, trash receptacle, lighting, signage, gangway and docking elements.• Five stations were proposed in the City of Miami Beach as part of a North Beach and a South Beach route which both connect back to a Central Business District Ferry Terminal proposed for Chopin Plaza, south of Bayfront Park. These stations include Mount Sinai, Lincoln Road, South Pointe Park, Maurice Gibb Park, and 69th Street. There are two proposed routes due to the low height of the Venetian Causeway drawbridge span.• Potential identified funding sources include Florida Strategic Intermodal System (SIS), the Park and Ride Lot Program, Public Transit Service Development Grant Program and the Intermodal Development Program.• Previous studies identified the following potential station locations which were revised in this study; Fisher Island, South Pointe Park, 10th Street, 14th Street, Lincoln Road, Dade Boulevard, Mount Sinai Hospital, 65th Street, Normandy Shores Park, and Tatum Waterway and Byron Avenue.MIAMI BEACH STRATEGIC PLAN 1 MIAMI BEACH STRATEGIC PLAN 2011 UPDATE The Plan to Make Miami Beach Even Better W a t e r T r a n s i t S e r v i c e s I.BACKGROUND The Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) cond ucted two studies to evaluate the feasibility of implementing waterborne servic es along Miami-Dade waterways. The first study determined the feasibility of implementing such service along Biscay ne Bay, the Miami River an d in other canals within the county. The second study recomme nded a plan for implementing the service mostly along the bay. Based on these results, the MPO Governing Board an d the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) passed resolutions requesting addi tional efforts for implementing waterb orne services along Biscayne Bay. Following is a summary of these efforts: 1.A Request for Information (RFI) was issued request ing interested firms to provide a letter of interest to participate in water transit services. 2.Three (3) firms submitted their proposal s, including information regarding: 3.Individual meetings were conducted with the firms to clarify aspects included in their proposals. II.MAJOR CONCERNS After evaluating all proposals, it was found that the following concerns could be considered as fatal flaws for the development and implementation of the proposed service, if thos e items could not be successfully overcome. A. Permitting For the operation of the service and the constructi on of terminal facilities, several permits are required. The agencies that need to issue such pe rmits are: U.S. Army Corps of Engineering (ACOE), Department of Environmental Re sources Management (DERM), Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the State Department of Environmental Protection Agen cy, as well as the County and municipal building and zoni ng departments. Addition ally, coordination needs to be established with other agencies, such as: U.S. Coast Guard, Miami-Dade Park and Recreation Department, Miami-Dade Transit and the Miami-Dade Department of Procur ement Management. The process for obtaining all permits could take up to 18 months. Company Background – Experience - Project Organization - Service Plan - Projected Ridership - Ancillary Facilities - Time Schedule - Capital Costs - Operating Costs Financing - Support from the County - Step s Needed Before Starting the Service Operator Participation – Environmental - Proposed Technology – Insurances M a r c h 2 0 0 7 City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 26
c ity of M ia M i b each 2025 c o MP rehensive P lan c ity of M ia M i b each g reen W ay n et W or K M aster P lan This document looks at different elements with the City, and outlines the objectives and how to implement them for each of the elements. These objectives include the following policies:• Land Use Objective 6: the acceptable level of services standards for recreation and open space based on the National Recreation and Park Association’s suggested minimum requirement is to have ten (10) acres of recreation and open space for every 1,000 permanent or seasonal residents.• Transportation Objective 3: Implementation and expansion of local circulator bus routes, expansion of the Atlantic Greenway network, Bike rack installations.• Transportation Objective 4: Continue to study use of Bus Rapid Transit, street cars, etc.• Transportation Objective 5: Including bike network and storage facilities, pedestrian safe crosswalks and sidewalks, beachwalk and baywalk, and continuing to implement Atlantic Greenway Network.• Infrastructure Objective 3: Identify and correct detrimental storm sewer discharges, improve and maintain catch basins.• Conservation/Coastal Zone Management, Objective 2: Encourage use of living seawalls and utilize salt tolerant landscaping.• Conservation/Coastal Zone Management, Objective 3: Redesign waterfront street ends, parks and parking facilities to provide greater public access. Improve quality of waters, circulation, tidal flushing, light penetration, and hurricane/contingency plan.The purpose of this document is to create a complete City-wide pedestrian and bike system, including north to south corridors and neighborhood trails. It is also to connect to transit systems and support a multi-modal transportation network. This document recommends the following facility types:• Multi-Use Paths and Greenways, paved paths exclusively for cyclists and pedestrians.• Bike Lanes, on-street paths exclusively for bikes • Bike Routes, on-street paths that share the roadway with vehicles • Parks and Opens Spaces • Support Facilities, including vendor, parking, restrooms, shade, seating and bike storage. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2025 27 Previous Studies
d ocu M enting t rash i n M ia M i b each W ater W ays - d ave d oebler The purpose of this document is to highlight quantity and severity of the trash and pollution issue in Miami Beach waterways. The document isolates the some of the main items found during canal cleanup efforts, including plastic bags, plastic bottles and cigarette butts and wrappers. The document suggests 5 key solutions:• Educating people and reduced consumption • Proper disposal, including quantity and quality of trash receptacles • Capture trash with storm drain grates • Storm Drain filtration and trapping systems • Cleanup efforts with the City and volunteers r evitalizing n orth b each o ceanfront P ar K s t hrough P lace M a K ing The purpose of this document is to represent all the recommendations made during Placemaking Workshops held with the community and local business owners in December of 2005. The workshops focused on ten destinations in North Beach. Some of the suggestions repeated for many of the spaces include:• Increased bike network and bike storage facilities • Increased seating • Improved pedestrians crosswalks • Vendor opportunities • Improved Lighting • Improved Landscaping • Signage within and directing to the park spaces • Improved bus stops, including seating, shelter and signage • Shared parking facilities • Increased artwork • Increase trash and recycling receptacles • Space programming R EVITALIZING N ORTH B EACH O CEANFRONT P ARKS THROUGH P LACEMAKING 1 Draft Report prepared by Project for Public Spaces, Inc REVITALIZING NORTH BEACH OCEANFRONT PARKS THROUGH PLACEMAKING DRAFT REPORT Prepared by: Project for Public Spaces, Inc,Prepared for:City of Miami Beach Planning Department February 2006 Contacts Project for Public Spaces, Inc.Cynthia Nikitin Elena Madison 700 Broadway New York, NY10003 212.620.5660 City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 28
c ity of M ia M i b each n orth b each t rolley c irculator l oo P t ransit r oute t echnical M e M orandu M i ndian c ree K g reen W ay s trategies This document highlights the plan for the City to implement City-wide transit circulators as an expedited route that complements the existing transit service by Miami Dade Transit.• This document highlights a Phase 1 route that runs throughout North Miami Beach.• Proposed funding sources including 1% Transportation Quality of Life Fund, expected revenue from trolley advertisements, and state shares.This poster represents the Master Plan recommendations produced from a group of students, the City, and professionals for a 2.5 mile corridor along Indian Creek. The three main strategies were landscape design, ecology and movement. Their suggestions included:• Landscape for each segment of the corridor • Improved connections to the beach • Ecosystem and seawall restoration • Improved pedestrian connectivity, pedestrian experiences and public transportation, north-south and east-west 1 City of MIAMI BEACH North Beach Trolley Circulator Loop Transit Route Technical Memorandum Introduction The City of Miami Beach is a coastal community in Miami Dade County, Florida. It was incorporated in 1915 and it is located in a series of natural and man -made barrier islands between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay. The latter divides Miami Beach from Downtown Miami. The City of Miami Beach is considered to be one of the major e conomic engines of South Florida. As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the city had a population of 87,779 and a land area of approximately seven (7) square miles. Since the early 20 th century, Miami Beach has been one of the premier cities in America for tourism. The City of Miami Beach’s Art Deco District is the largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the world, comprising of hundreds of hotels, apartments, and other structures erected between 1923 and 1943. The mixture between traditional 20 th Century a rchitecture and world renowned beaches have made Miami Beach one of the most dynamic cities in the tourism, entertainment, and special events fields in the world. In being one of the major economic engines in the state, the City of Miami Beach offers a wid e range of land use activities. The City of Miami Beach has developed a long term plan to implement city -wide transit circulators as a compliment to regional transit service being provided by Miami Dade Transit (MDT). The first phase to be implemented by the city is the North Beach Trolley Loop. Figure 1 illustrates a project location map. Figure 2 ill ustrates the proposed route, stops and quarter -mile service area on aerial map. Existing Conditions Land Use: Existing land use in the vicinity of the proposed route is primarily multifamily residential f o llowed by single family residential and commercial. The study are a also contains several major parks including several along Collins Avenue. Figure 3 illustrates existing land use in the vicinity of the proposed circulator route. Figure 4 illustrates some of the most significant local activity centers located along the proposed circulator route. Existing Transit Service: The proposed circulator service area is currently served by seven regional MDT bus routes with most of the service concentrated along Collins Avenue and Harding Avenue. This service is useful for providing transit service to/from the mainland but is not conducive for providing local transit trips. There is also a large number of existin g MDT transit stops that serve the seven exiting routes. Figure 5 illustrates existing MDT transit service in the vicinity of the proposed circulator route while Figure 6 illustrates existing MDT transit service stops. It should be noted that the proposed circulator will mostly utilize existing transit stops, thus supporting the integration of the services and minimizing the need for new infrastructure . Additionally, MDT is scheduled to consolidate routes 115 and 117 in June 2015 as part of a major restruct uring program . Existing Bike Rental Stations: The City of Miami Beach has implemented a highly successful bike rental program that is highly complementary to transit use. Figure 7 illustrates the Decobike bike sharing/rental station locations and as can be seen they are located in close proximity to several of the proposed circulator stops. Deco b ike is a citywide program that has been in place since March 2011 and has 1,000 custom bicycles in a network of 100 solar powered kiosks. 29 Previous Studies
site analysis
b aseline e cono M ic and d e M ogra P hic P rofile o vervie W According the 2010 U.S. Census, the City of Miami Beach had a population of 87,779, however the latest Census estimates report a projected population of 91,026 as of 2013. The 2010 Census also reported a total of 47,168 total households in the City of Miami Beach, with slightly below 40 percent of those households being owner-occupied. The homeownership rate for the City of Miami Beach (38.6 percent) is lower than the reported homeownership rate of 55.8 percent for Miami-Dade County overall. Households in Miami Beach were also smaller than households in Miami-Dade County overall. The City of Miami Beach reported an average household size of 1.84 persons, while Miami-Dade County reported an average household size of 2.83 persons.According the 2008-2012 American Community Survey (ACS), the City of Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County reported similar median household incomes ($43,321 and $43,464, respectively), yet Miami Beach reported a per capita income nearly double of that of Miami-Dade County. The latest ACS figures report a per capita income of $43,690 for Miami Beach, while Miami-Dade County’s per capita income was reported at $23,304.The population of the City of Miami Beach had a reported median age in 2010 of 40.3 years old, compared to a median age of 38.2 years old for Miami-Dade County. City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 32
M edian H ouse H old i n C o M es B y C ensus B lo C k g rou P (2008-2012 a M eri C an C o MM unity s urvey )C o MP ound a nnual (P o P ulation ) g rowt H r ate 2000-2010 33 Site Analysis
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 34
W aterborne t rans P ortation l ist The City of Miami Beach as a tourist destination and desirable place to reside has created a need to explore alternatives to private auto use. The increased traffic and resulting congestion place huge strains on the network of streets and roads. Parking has also become increasingly scarce and expensive. Congestion is difficult on a daily basis but when tourist season begins it becomes increasingly worse.Over the years, studies have been conducted and the potential use of permanent ferry/water taxi services have been explored. The recent Water Transit Services report from March 2007 explored the logistics and funding of such a transportation system. Currently, Water Taxi Miami provides service from Bayside Market Place/Bayfront Park to the Miami Beach Marina. This is currently the only stop in the City of Miami Beach. According to their schedule, six trips are made daily arriving at the Miami Beach Marina beginning at 11:30am and continuing throughout the day every 1.5 hours, until 7:15pm. 35 Site Analysis
P ollution and M arine d ebris Pollution and the existence of marine debris is a growing problem in the City of Miami Beach’s waterways, the nation, and the globe. Trash and plastic, in particular, clogs waterways and damages marine ecosystems. Trash is littered carelessly, spills out of receptacles, and falls from trucks and containers. It can be seen floating on the surface of water, or can sink to the bottom. Trash can travel throughout the waterways, accumulate in whirlpools, collect along the shore or continue to break into smaller fragments, which can last for decades and create a hazard for marine life.This is an opportunity to further study what can be done and to focus on stewardship and restoration of the water bodies and the land adjacent to them. Education and awareness create a first line of defense to help prevent the increase of pollution in the natural environment. Education through publications, marketing campaigns, art and film movements such as Project Aware, Washed Ashore, The Gyre Exhibition: The Plastic Ocean, and Into the Gyre and websites and social media such as Marine Debris Tracker. It is also important to start education efforts for young people by partnering with local schools and universities. Also, the City should encourage the community to participate in local and global cleanup initiatives such as International Cleanup Day.In addition to education, other methods of prevention can create a huge impact. The City must ensure proper disposal of trash and recyclables by providing adequate equipment and receptacles with lids that are emptied regularly and stored during wind storms. Also, encouraging boaters to properly store and deposit trash accumulated while on the water.The next line of defense is to have a system that can help to collect debris before it enters waterways. Seawalls, sediment traps, filtration marshes, and controlled stormwater systems can help to reduce or prevent items collecting in the waterway and can help to clean water as it discharges. Efforts should be made to utilize systems that remove debris without harming the environment or damaging any ecosystems.Studying and fully understanding currents and water streams can help to understand how trash is traveling along the waterway, where it comes from, such as debris traveling from the City of Miami, and where it is collecting.Funding for cleanup efforts can also be available through grants and programs such as the NOAA’s Community-based Marine Debris Removal Funding Opportunity.Lastly, enforcement policies are another option to help increase awareness throughout the community and control litter and pollution. City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 36
b iscayne b ay a quatic P reserve The Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve (BBAP) was established in 1974 and extends throughout Miami-Dade and Monroe County covering approximately 63,000 acres. It is home to a vast amount of marine species including the Florida manatee, American crocodile, and Johnson’s seagrass. The waters off the western edge of the City of Miami Beach and waterways within are included in the Northern portion. BBAP has resource management efforts to address issues such as water and sediment quality, coastal construction and habitat loss, natural resource management, and public access.The City of Miami Beach should continue to partner with the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve and their core programs to improve the quality of the water and marine life, and increase the public’s interaction with the water.37 Site Analysis
s ite P lan c ity -o W ned W aterfront P ro P erties Property fronting the water, particularly in more dense environments such as the City of Miami Beach is a valuable asset that should be enjoyed. The City currently owns many properties along the water. These waterfront properties include street ends and the open space along many roadways. Some of these areas are being utilized as parks and gathering spaces. Others only have minimal landscaping, are not in good condition or are not being utilized. These locations provide a great opportunity for the City to offer an amenity for surrounding residents, visitors and the community as a whole. Developing these areas can also enhance the quality of the City, and help to create a greener environment that allows for interaction with the surrounding water.s treet e nd l o C ations o P en s P a C e l o C ations City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 38
a rea of i nterest l egend s treet e nd l o C ations s treet e nd 5-10 M inute w alk d istan C es o P en s P a C e l o C ations o P en s P a C e 5-10 M inute w alk d istan C es a rea of i nterest l o C ation a rea e nd 5-10 M inute w alk d istan C es c ity -o W ned W aterfront P ro P erties The north and middle areas of Miami Beach have good access, while the south area of the City has less immediate connections to the water.C o MB ined l o C ations 5-10 M inute w alks 39 Site Analysis
B ikeway n etwork B ikeway n etwork l and u se /Z oning a nalysis d iagra M s ite d iagra M s B us s to P s l egend e xisting B ikeway P ro P osed B ikeway l egend e xisting B ikeway P ro P osed B ikeway P ri M arily r esidential a reas o t H er u ses i n C luding C o MM er C ial /o ffi C e B us s to P s City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 40
l egend a reas wit H in 10 M inute walk M onu M ent i sland l and M ark e xisti ng B ikeway C onne C tions t o 10 M in . r adius P r o P osed B ikeway C onne C tions to 10 M in . r adius P ote ntial B ay to o C ean P edestrian C onne C tion n o B e r esidential areas H ave good P edestrian C onne C tions to waterfront o P en s P a C es n eig HB or H oods C an B enefit fro M additional sidewalks w H i CH C an i MP rove t H e B ay to o C ean P edestrian C onne C tion .C ontinuous C onne C tions exist along o C ean -side . a C onne C tion C an B e P ro P osed along t H e islands on t H e B ay side .o P en a CC ess to residen C es fro M t H e water side M ay C reate P otential risks to residents . i ntrodu C ing an a M enity or Z one se P aration in t H e B ay M ay H el P to redu C e t H is risk .y a CH t and B rokerage s H ow event lo C ation . o PP ortunity to P rovide P edestrian P ro M enade along i ndian C reek .P otential C onne C tion a C ross islands fro M t H e i ntra C oastal to t H e o C ean .s o B e r esidential areas H ave li M ited P edestrian a CC ess to water , non -residential uses H ave even less . P ro P osed B ikeways C an C reate a stronger link .M onu M ent i sland is an existing land M ark . o PP ortunities for kayak sto P over .P otential P edestrian C onne C tions fro M t H e i ntra C oastal to t H e o C ean n o water transit exists . o PP ortunity to P rovide water taxi servi C e as studied in P ast P ro P osals .B oats C urrently stay in t H is area for extended P eriods of ti M e . o PP ortunity for M ooring field or t ransient do C ks .e xisting B ay w alk P rovides an o PP ortunity to extend nort H .s ite a nalysis d iagra M s ite a nalysis s ite a nalysis d iagra M Site Analysis 41
master plan
l egend a reas of i nterest B ay -o C ean C onne C tions P otential M otori Z ed w ater t axi P edestrian P ro M enade B reakwater /M angrove H a B itat M aster P lan d iagra M As part of this master plan, the team has selected a few sites and City-wide initiatives to focus on. Those include, but are not limited to:• Street ends • Waterfront parks • Waterfront open spaces • Pedestrian connections throughout • Bicycle connections throughout • Breakwater elements • Seawall alternatives • Boat docks and mooring facilities • Kayak/SUP launches • Motorized water transportation City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 44
P lan n ort H e nlarge M ent P lan s out H e nlarge M ent M aster P lan d iagra M 45 Master Plan
c once P t M aster P lan - n orth P ro P osed o PP ortunities wit H in t H e n ort H B ea CH distri C t in C lude t H e C reation of residential P o C ket P arks utili Z ing street ends and P roviding a CC ess to t H e water .1. P arkview P ark a nnex , l aun CH and d o C k 2. n ort H B ea CH s treet e nd P o C ket P ark and l aun CH 3. n or M andy s H ores P ark and d o C k 4. n ort H B ea CH P oli C e s u B -s tation l aun CH 5. B rittany B ay P ark , l aun CH and d o C k 6. M angrove H a B itats 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 46
P ro P osed o PP ortunities wit H in t H e n ort H and M iddle B ea CH distri C ts in C lude renovating existing o P en s P a C es to en H an C e t H e C o MM unities water a CC ess .1. l a g or C e l aun CH 2. l a g or C e s treet e nd l aun CH 3. n ort H B ay s treet e nd l aun CH 4. i ndian B ea CH P ark and d o C ks 5. P ine t ree P ark 6. M uss P ark , l aun CH and d o C ks 7. M angrove H a B itats c once P t M aster P lan - M iddle /n orth 1 2 3 5 4 6 7 7 7 7 47 Master Plan
P ro P osed o PP ortunities wit H in t H e M iddle and s out H B ea CH distri C ts in C lude , P ark u P dates , living s H orelines and P edestrian C onne C tivity i MP rove M ents .1. C H ase a venue P arking l ot 2. i ndian C reek s treet s ide 3. M ount s inai s out H o P en s P a C e 4. l ake P an C oast 5. r esidential P o C ket 6. C ollins C anal l iving s H orelines and d o C k 7. M auri C e g i BB s d o C k and l aun CH e n H an C e M ents 8. s out H B ea CH s treet e nd 9. P edestrian P ro M enades 10. M angrove H a B itats c once P t M aster P lan - M iddle /s outh 1 3 2 4 5 5 6 7 8 10 10 10 10 9 9 9 9 City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 48
P ro P osed o PP ortunities wit H in t H e s out H B ea CH distri C t in C lude M odifi C ations to existing land M arks like M onu M ent i sland and s out H P ointe P ark .1. l in C oln r oad s treet e nd d o C k 2. M onu M ent i sland 3. P edestrian P ro M enade 4. s out H P ointe P ark and d o C k 5. M angrove H a B itats c once P t M aster P lan - s outh 1 2 3 3 3 3 4 3 5 5 49 Master Plan
focus areas
f o C us a reas : s ite e nlarge M ents f o C us a reas : C ity -w ide a C tivities 1. s out H P ointe P ark 2. t y P i C al s out H B ea CH s treet e nd 3. M auri C e g i BB P ark 4. C ollins C anal 5. l ake P an C oast 6. i ndian B ea CH P ark 7. t y P i C al r esidential n eig HB or H ood • l iving s H orelines • M angrove H a B itats • k ayak /su P l aun CH es • P edestrian P ro M enades • s ea l evel r ise a da P tation • s ignage and B randing 1 1 3 3 2 3 e xisting s ite P H otos City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 52
C on C e P t M aster P lan 1 3 4 4 7 7 2 6 4 5 5 6 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 7 7 7 7 e xisting s ite P H otos 53 Focus Areas
e xisting s ite P H otos s outh P ointe P ar K M ediu M to long ter M i MP le M entation P otential i MP rove M ents :1. w ater t axi s to P 2. d ay -u se d o C k 3. l iving s H oreline e n H an C e M ent 4. M angrove H a B itat 5. s unken v iewing C lassroo M 6. P ro M enade e xtension k ey M a P s out H P ointe P ark C on C e P t e nlarge M ent 4 1 2 3 3 5 6 City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 54
s outh P ointe P ar K M ediu M to long ter M i MP le M entation P rogra MM ing i nitiatives and C on C e P t a C tivities :1. w ater t axi s ervi C es 2. d ay -u se B oat d o C king 3. l iving s H oreline H a B itat e n H an C e M ent 4. M angrove v iewing H a B itat 5. s unken v iewing C lassroo M /o B servation d e C k 6. P edestrian P ro M enade 7. P ark s P a C e 8. s afe waterfront seating wit H lig H ting 9. B ird w at CH ing P oint 10. l ook -out P oint /v iewing t eles C o P e 11. B ike t rail wit H B ike r a C ks s out H P ointe P ark P rogra MM ing a C tivities 55 Focus Areas
s outh b each s treet e nd M ediu M ter M i MP le M entation s o B e s treet e nd P o C ket P ark C on C e P t e nlarge M ent e xisting s ite P H otos P otential i MP rove M ents :1. w ater t axi s to P 2. d ay -u se d o C k 3. d ro P -o ff a rea 4. v iewing /s eating a rea wit H site furniture : B en CH es , tras H /re C y C ling re C e P ta C les , B ike storage , and lig H ting 5. i MP roved P edestrian C onne C tivity 6. k ayak /su P l aun CH * k ey M a P 1 2 6 3 4 5 * a t lo C ations wit H a PP ro P riate water C onditions (wave si Z e , C urrents , tides )City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 56
s outh b each s treet e nd M ediu M ter M i MP le M entation P rogra MM ing i nitiatives and C on C e P t a C tivities :1. w ater t axi s ervi C es 2. d ay -u se B oat d o C king 3. P edestrian P ro M enade C onne C tion 4. s afe waterfront seating wit H lig H ting 5. C onne C tion to B ike network wit H B ike r a C ks 6. P er P endi C ular on -street P arking fa C ilities 7. k ayaking , C anoeing , and s tand -u P P addle B oarding s o B e s treet e nd P o C ket P ark P rogra MM ing a C tivities 57 Focus Areas
M aurice g ibb P ar K short to long ter M i MP le M entation e xisting s ite P H otos M auri C e g i BB P ark C on C e P t e nlarge M ent P otential i MP rove M ents :1. w ater t axi s to P /d ing H y d o C k 2. e xisting B oat laun CH 3. k ayak /su P l aun CH 4. k ayak /su P v endor P avilion and d ro P -off 5. i MP roved P edestrian a CC ess to l aun CH 6. P otential M anaged M ooring f ield or t ransient d o C k o PP ortunity 7. P edestrian B ridge a C ross C anal i MP roving P edestrian a CC ess fro M t H e sout H and l in C oln r oad 8. l iving s H oreline e n H an C e M ents 9. e xisting P ark s P a C e k ey M a P 4 4 3 1 2 8 8 8 8 6 6 6 7 9 9 5 5 City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 58
M aurice g ibb P ar K short to long ter M i MP le M entation P rogra MM ing i nitiatives and C on C e P t a C tivities :1. w ater t axi s ervi C es 2. B oat l aun CH 3. d ay -u se d ing H y d o C king 4. l iving s H oreline H a B itat e n H an C e M ent 5. P ark s P a C e 6. s afe waterfront seating wit H lig H ting 7. B ird w at CH ing P oints /v iewing t eles C o P e 8. i n C reased P edestrian C onne C tivity and P edestrian B ridge 9. i n C or P oration into C ity -w ide B ike n etwork and in C lusion of B ike r a C ks M auri C e g i BB P ark P rogra MM ing a C tivities 59 Focus Areas
c ollins c anal M ediu M ter M i MP le M entation e xisting s ite P H otos C ollins C anal C on C e P t e nlarge M ent 1 1 1 2 4 4 3 3 P otential i MP rove M ents :1. i MP roved P edestrian C rosswalk and C onne C tion 2. s ide -tie d ay -u se B oat /k ayak do C k 3. M anaged l iving s H oreline e n H an C e M ents 4. C onne C tion to C ollins C anal M ulti -u se P at H k ey M a P City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 60
c ollins c anal M ediu M ter M i MP le M entation P rogra MM ing i nitiatives and C on C e P t a C tivities :1. s ide -t ie d ay -u se M otori Z ed and non -M otori Z ed do C k 2. i n C reased P edestrian C onne C tivity 3. i n C or P oration into C ity -w ide B ike n etwork 4. l iving s H oreline and H a B itat e n H an C e M ent 5. P otential lo C al fis H ing lo C ations C ollins C anal P rogra MM ing a C tivities 61 Focus Areas
e xisting s ite P H otos l ake P an C oast C on C e P t e nlarge M ent 1 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 6 6 6 P otential i MP rove M ents :1. d ay -u se d o C k 2. i MP roved C rosswalks at interse C tions 3. s idewalk wit H P rote C tive B arrier along roadway 4. e levated P edestrian B oardwalk P ro M enade 5. M anaged l iving s H oreline en H an C e M ents 6. s ite f urniture : seating , tras H /re C y C ling re C e P ta C les , B ike storage , and lig H ting k ey M a P l a K e P ancoast long ter M i MP le M entation City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 62
P rogra MM ing i nitiatives and C on C e P t a C tivities :1. P edestrian P ro M enade B oardwalk C onne C tion 2. i n C or P oration into C ity -w ide B ike n etwork 3. i MP roved s H oreline n atural l ands C a P ing and l iving s H oreline e n H an C e M ent 4. e xtension of existing s idewalk 5. i MP roved P edestrian C onne C tivity to surrounding areas 6. H eig H tened t ras H C leanu P and C olle C tion M easures l ake P an C oast P rogra MM ing a C tivities l a K e P ancoast long ter M i MP le M entation 63 Focus Areas
l a K e P ancoast long ter M i MP le M entation e xisting r oadway d ay -u se d o C k B eyond w aterway M angrove + s H oreline v egetation P lanting + M ulti -u se B oardwalk s idewalk e xtension l ake P an C oast C on C e P tual s ite s e C tion City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 64
l a K e P ancoast long ter M i MP le M entation l ake P an C oast C on C e P tual v iew 65 Focus Areas
i ndian b each P ar K long ter M i MP le M entation e xisting s ite P H otos i ndian B ea CH P ark C on C e P t e nlarge M ent 1 1 1 3 3 4 2 2 7 7 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 5 P otential i MP rove M ents :1. i MP roved P edestrian C onne C tion to B ea CH 2. v endor P avilion 3. e x P anded d ay u se d o C k (P erfor M an C e B ased )4. M aintained l iving s H oreline 5. s ite f urniture : seating , tras H /re C y C ling re C e P ta C les , B ike storage 6. e xisting i ndian B ea CH P ark 7. e xisting P arking k ey M a P City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 66
i ndian b each P ar K long ter M i MP le M entation P rogra MM ing i nitiatives and C on C e P t a C tivities :1. i MP roved P edestrian C onne C tivity to surrounding areas 2. i n C or P oration into C ity -w ide B ike n etwork 3. l iving s H oreline e n H an C e M ent 4. e n H an C e M ent of existing s idewalk 5. d ay -u se B oat d o C king 6. P otential k ayak l aun CH and v endor k iosks i ndian B ea CH P ark P rogra MM ing a C tivities 67 Focus Areas
r esidential n eighborhood short ter M i MP le M entation t y P i C al r esidential n eig HB or H ood P o C ket P ark C on C e P t e nlarge M ent t y P i C al r esidential n eig HB or H ood P o C ket P ark C on C e P t e nlarge M ent 1 2 3 4 4 1 4 2 2 3 e xisting s ite P H otos P otential i MP rove M ents :1. d ro P -off a rea 2. v iewing /s eating a rea 3. n eig HB or H ood d ay u se d o C k 4. n eig HB or H ood k ayak and s tand -u P P addle B oard l aun CH 5. s ite f urniture : s eating , tras H /re C y C ling re C e P ta C les , B ike storage , and lig H ting k ey M a P City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 68
r esidential n eighborhood short ter M i MP le M entation P rogra MM ing i nitiatives and C on C e P t a C tivities :1. P otential d o C k l o C ation for s H ort ter M use (n eig HB or H ood use loading and unloading )2. P otential k ayak /su P l aun CH 3. i MP roved l ands C a P ing , and site lig H ting 4. w aterfront seating and P u B li C use event s H elters 5. C onne C tion into C ity -wide B ike network and P edestrian C onne C tivity 6. B ike r a C ks r esidential n eig HB or H ood P o C ket P ark P rogra MM ing a C tivities 69 Focus Areas
r esidential n eighborhood short ter M i MP le M entation v e H i C ular d ro P -off a rea C o MM unity g a Z e B o a rea P at H way and P lanting P otential k ayak l aun CH w aterway w aterfront s eating a rea + s eawall r esidential n eig HB or H ood C on C e P tual s ite s e C tion City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 70
r esidential n eighborhood short ter M i MP le M entation r esidential n eig HB or H ood C on C e P tual v iew 71 Focus Areas
c ity -W ide a ctivities c ity -W ide a ctivities Pedestrian Promenades Pedestrian connections throughout the City are important not only for residents to navigate their neighborhoods, but also for visitors to experience the Island and it’s waterways.Major Pedestrian thoroughfares should be placed at key locations to enhance the pedestrian’s experience along the water.The Convention Center and Indian Creek both host key events such as the Boat Show. This creates potential for a pedestrian promenade that connects the Convention Center back to Indian Beach.Another key location for a pedestrian promenade is the proposed Bay Walk running along the bay in South Beach. This promenade could also connect to Lincoln Road and other key corridors. Kayak & Stand-up Paddle boarding Launches The addition of non-motorized launches throughout the community creates an opportunity for an added amenity. These launches can utilize existing parks and open spaces in both residential and tourist areas and create interaction with the water. Launches in residential areas can be catered to surrounding residents by only adding the launch and those in tourist or higher density areas can include parking and a kiosk for kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals.Living Shorelines Seawalls are the common method utilized throughout the City to stabilize the shoreline. This solution is expensive to maintain and adapt for future sea level conditions.This plan recommends the careful consideration of cost-effective and environmentally sensitive solutions for improvement and adaptation of existing shoreline structures. In particular, new solutions may include engineered slope revetments with intertidal habitat creation generally referred to in this report as living shorelines.A living shoreline includes plant material that can help to improve the water quality (by filtering runoff) and provide a small aquatic habitat. This solution may be retrofitted in front of failing seawalls and designed to adapt to higher sea levels.Mangrove Habitats Engineered mangrove planters can be designed as a first line of defense during storm conditions. They also provide a habitat/shelter for local birds and marine life. A mangrove habitat placed away from the shoreline can help to protect properties along the shore, add interest to the views from waterfront properties, and create a destination for visiting kayakers/stand-up paddle boarders.Sea Level Rise Adaptation City of Miami Beach is currently undergoing an overhaul of its stormwater management infrastructure in order to alleviate the impacts from flooding due to higher water levels. It assumed by this plan that any shoreline structure repair or improvement should account for expected increase in sea level rise. New works should at least be fully compatible with other upland infrastructure projects by the City and with regional guidelines such as the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact. Ideally, the new shoreline design should incorporate additional flexibility for adaptation to uncertain future conditions derived from climate change. The tasks and projects proposed in this Blueways Master Plan, from sea wall replacement and mangrove islands to day use docks and kayak launches, will need to be designed considering adaptation to sea level rise. It is not only for the functionality of the projects themselves but the protection of the City’s land assets as well. Signage and Branding Increasing efforts to connect people to the water and to help people keep the water clean and safe for marine life can be improved by helping people to be more aware.Efforts to increase signage, and create branding coupled with all other marketing efforts are key to providing a comprehensive approach and improving awareness.A signage, branding, and marketing campaign should be created to increase awareness about surrounding marine life such as manatees and Johnson’s seagrass. It can also help in understanding how stormwater interacts with the surrounding water bodies. This campaign should also address healthy and active lifestyles, and how the community can and should utilize the waterways around them.City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 72
e cono M ic c onditions and the b oating c o MM unity Current Economic Conditions Economic conditions in Miami-Dade County have continued to strengthen since the recession in 2007/8. This is supported by a few key indicators such as unemployment which continues to decrease, and housing values which continue to strengthen. Current Boating Registrations Miami-Dade County vessel registrations (16 feet or greater) increased from roughly 38,200 in 2008, to just under 41,700 in 2014, which is a record level. All of these indicators portend well for the region’s boating community, of which Miami Beach serves as one of the most active boating communities due to the its waterfront location.Observations To support the strengthened economic conditions and growth of boating activity in the region, there should be an increase in infrastructure to address, improve or increase boat launches, day use docks, transient slips and other associated facilities.73 Focus Areas
r ecreational and c o MM ercial b oating e xisting c onditions and i nfrastructure i MP rove M ents Marinas and Moorings Existing Infrastructure Throughout the City of Miami Beach there is limited recreational and commercial boating infrastructure. The Miami Beach Marina is the only marina in the City and is home to most of the fishing and yacht charter operations. Transient opportunities are also available here and this location is convenient to shopping, beaches, and restaurants in the South Beach area. There are moored vessels north and south of the Venetian Causeway adjacent to Maurice Gibb Memorial Park. These moorings are not regulated by the City and many of the vessels are derelict. There are no other options for day use docking or transient slips.Improvements Additional Marina opportunities should be sought to accommodate boating activities to more points along the City of Miami Beach’s bay/creek side. Various points are identified in this Master Plan along Indian Creek which could be developed into day use opportunities to connect residents to the beaches and parks throughout the City. A managed mooring field at Maurice Gibb Memorial Park would create income producing transient space for boats to tie up for short periods. Boat Ramps Existing Infrastructure The only boat ramp within the City is the Barry Kutun Public Boat Ramp, located at Maurice Gibb Memorial Park. This ramp is currently used by both boats and non-motorized vessels such as kayaks and SUPs. Nearby there is a surface lot with 39 parking spaces. The next nearest boat ramp is located at Haulover Park north of Haulover Inlet or Pelican Harbor Park located on John F. Kennedy Causeway. Improvements Redesign of the boat ramp to organize uses and discourage unintended use of the ramp (SUP and kayak launch). Separate from the boat ramp, facilities would be created to accommodate the SUP and kayak users to provide appropriate, safe access to the water. SUP/Kayak Launches Existing Infrastructure There is currently one official kayak launch located at Pine Tree Park. Kayak and SUP users also use the boat ramp designated for motor boats at Maurice Gibb Memorial Park. There are instances where other, less official, access to the water has been found and used such as street ends and through the vegetation at the parks along Indian Creek. Improvements Access to the water would be created at several points along the waterways so that SUP and kayak users can enter and exit the water more safely. These points also correspond to fairly direct access to the beaches by way of cross streets.Support Facilities for Boating Infrastructure Existing Infrastructure There are restrooms at Maurice Gibb Memorial Park but no other facilities which would be required to accommodate boating needs.Improvements In the event that a mooring field (or marina) is created, additional amenities would be considered. Expanding the existing restrooms to include showers or create separate facilities for registered boat tenants. A pump-out facility would be recommended to accommodate boaters. Dockside electric and water would be available if a marina option is pursued. Trash and recycling receptacles will be made available for all options including the expansion and separation of the boat ramp facility.City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 74
W ater W ay i nfrastructure e xisting c onditions and i MP rove M ents Navigation Existing Infrastructure The waterways adjacent to the City of Miami Beach seem to be navigable and channels appear to be marked as necessary. Some inland waterways such as Collins Canal and thinner canals at the north end of Indian Creek appear to be shallow in some areas. However these shallower areas are not intended for use by motor boats at this time. Improvements Analysis of improvements to navigation would begin with a survey of the waters of the City. Local knowledge of areas of concern would be integral in determining need for dredging as well as public input regarding the desires of use for the waterways. Bulkheads and Retaining Walls Existing Infrastructure Many of the bulkhead and retaining walls throughout the City, mainly along undeveloped properties, roads, and street ends are in disrepair and of insufficient elevation to protect from rising tides and sea levels. Improvements An assessment of the sea walls, bulkheads, and retaining walls would be made at all proposed project locations. There are several options available to provide armoring of the upland. Depending on the specific site conditions (use of upland, available, etc.), the bulkhead can be replaced by a new bulkhead or be connected to a living shoreline. In both cases, the upland will be raised to sufficiently accommodate for forecasted sea level rise. The living shoreline option will allow for the managed planting of mangroves and other natural shoreline vegetation and become a natural habitat for a variety of species. Breakwaters/Mangrove Habitats Existing Infrastructure There are currently no breakwaters or man-made mangrove habitats in Biscayne Bay near the City of Miami Beach. The closest are the picnic islands near the Intracoastal Waterway.Improvements The creation of a chain of mangrove islands immediately west of the City of Miami Beach in the shallower waters of Biscayne Bay may have several benefits. First they may create new habitats for many species. Properly engineered mangrove islands would provide a natural barrier against waves and chop created from strong west winds, protecting homes and property. Additionally, they would create a destination for kayak and SUP users to go, reducing the need to travel through residential canals. 75 Focus Areas
implementation
P hasing P lan and i MP le M entation s trategies To complete the recommendations outlines in this planning document, a tiered approach is suggested to phase elements in throughout the City, as funding and resources arise.Utilizing the “low-hanging fruit” opportunities is a good way to immediately create an impact and start to see changes. Also, developing a kit of parts can help to implement a standard set of elements that can be modified to adjust to each location and it’s parameters.Low Hanging Fruit:Coordinate all programs and initiatives Short The City should coordinate all efforts with relative City-wide initiatives, such as the Atlantic Greenway Network Master Plan, the Comprehensive Plan, the Storm Water Master Plan, the Municipal Mobility Plan, the Sustainability Plan and all others.Low Hanging Fruit:Landscape Improvements Short Utilize a standard City-wide plant palette to improve the appearance of all public waterfront properties. Create inviting open spaces, that are pleasant for the community to enjoy and utilize safe designs such as CPTED standards.Low Hanging Fruit:Implement Kayak Launches Short Determine standard kayak launch specifications and pre-approved products to utilize City-wide. This will facilitate easy implemen -tation of kayak launches as funding becomes available throughout the City.Low Hanging Fruit: City Maintenance Short Continue to proceed with the implementation of the City-wide stormwater plan and systems. Complete regular maintenance and cleaning of stormwater systems and catch basins.Low Hanging Fruit: Site Furniture Short Utilize City-wide site furniture standards to implement at all waterfront public properties. Each space should include benches, bike racks, and lighting to create a safe and pleasant environment easy for the community to enjoy.City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 78
Low Hanging Fruit: Marketing Campaign Short Create and implement a marketing campaign to help keep waterways clean. Utilize digital media, signage, and other marketing ef -forts to spread awareness throughout the community. These efforts should address recycling, littering, and pollution. Efforts could include signage on or near manhole covers highlighting where the water goes.Water Taxi Short This effort should be coordinated with City-wide boat docking implementation to help create shared use spaces. The City should continue to consider vendors to provide a water transportation service for the City. The City should provide the space for these vendor locations and the vendors should implement the necessary facilities to provide their service.Artificial Habitat Creation Short Decide on standard design, specifications and pre-approved products. Artificial reef products can be utilized for habitat enhance -ment. They can rehabilitate coral reefs, create oyster reefs, create fishing sites, and help to protect young mangrove plants. The City should replace submerged debris currently being utilized to create habitats for fish in the waterways and replace with intentional artificial habitats. These efforts should be coordinated with near-shore coral patch reef protection and restoration.Living Shorelines Medium While continuing efforts to renovate seawalls based on the Seawall Assessment and other reports, each location should be evalu -ated for the possibility to implement living shorelines and similar initiatives during its renovation. Day-Use Boat Docks Medium As funds become available, the City should have day-use boat docks constructed at the locations specified in this master plan. Some docks, such as the suggested dock for Indian Beach Park along Indian Creek, can be phased, starting with a side-tie dock, that can expand based on demand. This effort should be coordinated with potential water taxi routes to create shared facilities.Waterway Dredging Medium The City should have surveys created to evaluate dredging needs for its water bodies, including Collins Canal and Indian Creek. These efforts should be based on need, and can help increase navigability and to remove debris.79 Implementation
Potential Mooring Field/Transient Dock Medium The City should consider converting the area currently utilized by many near Maurice Gibb Park into a City-owned Mooring Field or transient docks/slips. Once feasibility and approvals have been acquired, proper facilities should be created.Improve Pedestrian Connectivity Medium The City should coordinate efforts with the Atlantic Greenways Network Master Plan and similar documents to improve pedestrian connectivity throughout the City and to its waterways. Improved crosswalks are suggested at locations such as at Dade Boulevard and 19th Street, and at Collins Avenue and 46th Street.Bike Network Medium The City should coordinate with the Atlantic Greenways Network Master Plan, the Bike Master Plan and similar documents to help create a cohesive bike network and improve access to the waterfront. These efforts should include signage to improve awareness of bicyclists to users and automobiles that may be sharing roadways. The purpose is to create a bike friendly urban setting with equal consideration for automobiles, pedestrians and bikes.Vendor Kiosks and Stands Medium The City should provide space for vendor kiosks and stands near to kayak launch locations, to allow the community the opportunity to interact with the water in multiple ways.Pedestrian Boardwalks and Promenades Medium + Long The City should continue existing efforts to create a complete pedestrian promenade/bay walk along the western portion of South Beach. It should also create a complete pedestrian promenade/boardwalk along Indian Creek extending north from Lake Pancoast. This promenade can create a much needed space for events such as the International Boat Show.Shelters and Gazebos Long Public waterfront spaces should continue to improve, once funding is in place by adding shelters and gazebos in waterfront park spaces. These spaces can be utilized by the community on a daily basis and can become a space to host functions and a rental space for community members events.City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 80
Pedestrian Bridge Long To help improve pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, the City should develop a pedestrian bridge over Collins Canal, connecting Bay Road to Dade Boulevard. This will help to provide access from South Beach residents and amenities to Maurice Gibb Park and vice-versa.Sunken Classroom Long At the South Pointe Park location, the location previously used for U.S. Army can be renovated to include a sunken viewing area/classroom. The space would provide a visual connection to underwater habitats.Mangrove Habitat Long Once funding is in place, there should be a City-wide initiative to implement Mangrove Habitats along the City’s waterways. Man -groves are key to help stabilize shorelines due to erosion and storm surge, and can also aid with sediment control efforts. In addi -tion, mangroves are critical for some bird and marine life habitats. Mangrove habitats should be placed throughout the entire City to provide a visual point of interest for community members utilizing jet skis, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, etc. This can also help to focus these users and help to reduce recreation in unwanted areas.Lookout Pier Long At the South Pointe Park location, create an extension of the existing promenade to extend over the water. This can terminate in a structure to provide a lookout point.City Marina Long The City should conduct studies evaluating the feasibility of City owned marina facilities at Maurice Gibb Park. This can provide an alternate boating infrastructure element, potentially alleviate transient boaters parking near private property and can potentially pro -vide a revenue producing element.81 Implementation
P otential f undraising o PP ortunities Summary of Potential Funding Resources Presently, there are a number of funding related issues impacting the Miami Beach Blueways Master Plan and the ability to support the broad range of planning initiatives and capital improvements programs as envisioned herein. There is a myriad of potential funding sources for the Miami Beach Blueways Master Plan and related redevelopment and programming initiatives including funding availability from sources such as local (City or County) redevelopment funds, state, transportation, or other federal, county and state grant/lending programs. However, it is difficult to ascertain the level of funding that is available from these sources and, given the heightened competitiveness among municipalities (and other public and/or related agencies) to access these funding resource as a result of current economic conditions, most funding utilized to support this planning effort likely represents a small portion of the total capital improvement budget.Private/Public Funding Public/Private Partnership (PPP) is generally structured between a government agency and one or more private sector entities. Depending on the proposed project, government participation can range from a one-time funding contribution, financial/operational incentives, or ongoing subsidy for development or programming. In most cases, an important component to a PPP is revenue generation from one or more elements of the development plan that can be used to support at least some degree of investment return for the private sector partner and/or the public participant. The revenue available to support public/private investment may be generated from operating profit, increased tax revenue, user fees or other revenue producing mechanism. Public/Private funding for this master plan may be considered for activities related to eco-tourism and recreation/event based programs.Grants/other Federal and state grants offer an additional funding opportunity that can directly support development or supplement other funding resources; however, these grants are generally highly competitive and application period is relatively narrow. Therefore, it is important to have a master plan in place that is perceived as “shovel ready” and provides marked benefit to the surrounding community. There are numerous grant programs to consider in support varying elements of the master plan. However, many grants require matching funds, particularly those for major capital improvements; as a result, additional funding sources will need to be identified before many grants can be considered. Moreover, most grant opportunities are very specific in terms of project eligibility; therefore, a development or event program needs to be in place before grant opportunities can be pursued. In light of current economic conditions, the grant funding environment is highly competitive. Nonetheless, a summary of potential grants and related funding for the master plan include:• Transportation grants associated with traffic mitigation and pedestrian safety, as well as water-related transportation and coastal navigation;• Arts and Cultural grants that may be utilized to promote eco-tourism activity and local arts and performance events;• Small Business grants made available to support local businesses particularly those aimed at promoting health and wellness.• NOAA Funding Opportunities • Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) funding City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan Final Master Plan Booklet 82
Specific Recreational Navigation Funding The Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) represents a significant grant funding partner, as several proposed elements of the Blueways Master Plan could be eligible for FIND grant funding assistance. FIND administers several grant programs which are designed to improve conditions, access, and recreational amenities along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.The FIND Cooperative Assistance Program (CAP) is a grant program for state and regional government entities allowing for funding assistance with waterway related projects. There is no limitation on the amount funding that may be requested. The District is authorized to provide up to 75% for public navigation projects while all other project categories are eligible for up to 50% funding assistance. Annually the District allocates approximately $1 million for the program. Cash and other grant funds may be utilized as the local match.The Waterways Assistance Program (WAP) is a grant program for the purpose of financially cooperating with local governments to alleviate problems associated with the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and associated waterways. Eligible waterway related projects include navigation channel dredging, channel markers, navigation signs or buoys, boat ramps, docking facilities, fishing & viewing piers, waterfront boardwalks, inlet management, environmental education, law enforcement equipment, boating safety programs, beach re-nourishment, dredge material management, environmental mitigation, and shoreline stabilization. FIND is authorized to provide up to 75% for public navigation projects, while all other project categories are eligible for up to 50% funding assistance. Elements of the Blueways Master Plan may be eligible to participate in this program. FIND also administers the Small-Scale Spoil Island Restoration & Enhancement Program. The program is open to any governmental agency who owns a spoil island, or any agency, organization, group, or individual who has leased, or has a management agreement for, a spoil island from a governmental entity for restoration, enhancement, and management.83 Implementation
conclusion
85 This master plan document is a living document to be revisited and built upon as needed. It should be used as funding and capabilities become available to improve the City of Miami Beach’s waterfront areas.Through the use of this master plan document, the City of Miami Beach has many opportunities to revitalize their existing waterfront public spaces and create inviting and interactive moments along the water. This document also emphasizes the need to expand pedestrian connectivity throughout, allowing everyone to travel from the land to the water. This will allow residents and visitors alike to take advantage of the water, a surrounding amenity, and will lead to healthier lifestyles throughout. This document reflects a combined effort of designers, the city and public input to create a foundation that will serve as a guide moving forward. The suggested improvements take advantage of underutilized spaces and start by suggesting “low-hanging fruit” and less expensive renovations such as landscape and site furnishings that address the appearance and usefulness of the City’s open space, as well as including bike facilities and proper trash and recycling receptacles. Additionally the master plan suggests enhancements for each of these spaces that are specific to their location and can be applied in other similar locations throughout the City. This will help to save costs by reducing the need for completely new designs. These recommendations include but are not limited to kayak launches, boat docking facilities, mangrove habitats, living shorelines, improved maintenance efforts and pedestrian and bicycle networks.The next steps shall be to utilize community consensus to select projects to be completed. This master plan provides recommendations for future consultants to be refined into detailed design documents addressing budget, environmental regulations, permitting and identifying funding before each project enters the construction phase. conclusion
appendices
master plan specifications
The Blueways Master Plan will provide a network for a system of canals, rivers, waterways and lakes with a similar environmental theme, connecting people to the water at convenient locations, providing aquatic recreational opp ortunities, as well as transporta tion by water within a community .Through the Blueways Master Plan, th e City of Miami Beach aims to revitalize waterfront public spaces, creating a sustainable and thriving environment, while connecting people from land to water and encouraging healthy lifestyles .To ensure environmental sustainability, protection of nat ural areas and quality of urban l ife the city shall continue to protect publicly accessible urban greenspace and scenic open space vistas ,while supporting the use of environmentally -preferable standards and requirements .Therefore, i n addition to any technical or other requirements est ablished herein, the following environmentally -preferable standards and requirements shall serve as a foundation for all work related to the design of this Master Plan .1.1 Governing Standards 1.1.1 Standard Signage Each site shall have a standard signage identifying the sites of the Blueways Master Plan. Signage will be tailored and standardized for the Bluew ays Master Plan. The standard signage for the sites shall include: the Miami Beach Blueways Hybrid Logo, the name of park, a brief description of the site with information about the recreational areas, the Blueways Master Plan’s main goals and the link for the Blueways ’website for further detailed information. Environmental educational signa ge will also be included at each site. F or sites with motorized and non -motorized ves s els zoning , the signage shall also provide recreational rou tes for non -motorized vessels , as well as safety tips .These signs will be developed by the City and tailored t o each site.1.1.2 Planting palette The planting palette for the mangrove restoration shall be allocat ed within the below elevation ranges using North American Vertical Datum (NAVD)and average Mean High Water (MHW):a)R ed mangroves (Rhizophora mangle )to be planted at approximately -0.56 to -0.36 ft NAVD (allowable vertical tolerance 10%), on three -f oot centers ;b)Black mangroves (Avicennia germinans )to be planted at approximately -0.36 to -0.16 ft NAVD (allowable vertical tolerance 10%), on three -foot centers ;c)W hite mangroves (Lagunculari a r acemosa )to be planted at approximately -0.2 .6 to 0.04 ft NAVD (allowable vertical tolerance 10%), on five -foot centers;d)Bottom wood trees (Conocarpus erectus )to be planted at approximately 0.04 to 0.94 ft NAVD (allowable vertical tolerance 10%);e)Gulf cordgrass (Spartina spartinae )to be planted at approximately 0.54 to 0.94 ft NAVD (allowable vertical tolerance 10%);The planting species, spac ing , height, quality and size, as well as fertilization and planting methods shall also be approved by the Greens pace Management Division and Environmental &Sustainability Division .1.1.2.1 Planting removal All projects shall remove all vegetative mass, including leaves, stems, and trunks, plus all gross roots of Category I and II Invasive E xotic Pest Plants, as identified by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC), including but not limited to Hawaiian seagrape (Scaevola taccada),Brazillian pepper (Shinus terebinthifolis ),Australian pine (Casaurina equisetifolia ).Native coin vine (Dalberghia ec astophylum ) and gray nickerbean (Ceasalpinia bonduc )are also considered invasive as well. 1.1.2.2 Living Shoreline Enhancement For living shoreline design elements including but not limited to loose aggregate ri p -rap and/or mangrove planters shall be considered .O nly native vegetation species shall be considered for planting and shall be approved by the Greens pace Management Division and Environmental & Sustainability Division .For the native species selection, v isual barrier s and maintenance concerns shall be considered, according to each site .The planting palette, spacing , height , quality and size, as well as planting methods and fertilization shal l also be approved by the Greens pace Management Division and Environmental & Sustainability Divisio n .Conditions on site at the time of planting may necessitate modification of the planting design and number of planting units required at the Greens pace Management and Environmental & Sustainability Division s’discret ion.1.1.3 Furniture All public furniture, including benches, trash receptacles, signs, bicycle racks and lighting shall be reviewed and approved by the Public Works Department, Greenspace Management Division, Parks &Recreation Department, Planning Department and Environme ntal & Sustainability Division .Materials using recycled and recyclable building and landscape materials and regionally extracted and/or manufactured materials shall be considered and used to the greatest extent possible . Finish materials, paints, adhesives caulks and sealants that contain low or no volatile organic compounds shall be prioritized when feasible .1.1.3.1 Benches The City’s standard style of benches currently used high -traffic areas throughout the public r ight -of -way shall be considered , subject to change based on new and updated specifications made by the City .1.1.3.2 Litter receptacles The Sanitation Division and Parks & Recreation Departments standard styles of litter and recycling receptacles used in public right -of -way and in parks shall be utilized , subject to change based on new and updated specifications made by the City .1.1.3.3 Bicycle storage T he standard style of bicycle racks currently used in high -traffic areas throughout the public right -of -way , shall be considered, subject to change based on new and updated specifications made by the City .1.1.3.4 Lighting LED solar lights shall be considered when feasible , as w ell as certified wildlife light ing as specified by Florida Fish and W ildlife Conservation Commission .1.1.4 Dock usage and design E xtensive use of recycled and recyclable building and landscape materials and regionally extracted and/or manufactured materials shall be considered for the dock design . Finish materials, paints, adhesives caulks and sealants that contain low or no volatile organic compounds shall be prioritized when possible. Natural wood de cks and composite decking (blend waste wood fiber and recycled plastics) shall be prioritized wit hin the materials to be chosen for the deck construction. 1.1.4.1 Day -Use dock The dock usage shall be designed when feasible to separate motorized and non -motorized vessels ,aiming to avoid water users’ conflicts .Signage shall be provided for motorize d and non -motorized ves s els zoning.1.1.4.2 Water Taxi Stop Water taxi stops shall be designed with a drop -off area and a covered waiting area ,as well as the taxi stop in a way that avoids conflict with other water users (boaters, kayakers, paddle -boarders, marine patrol , etc). If feasible, restrooms shall be considered within the surrounding area .1.1.5 Pedestrian Connectivity The pedestrian connectivity design shall prioriti ze existing or planned pedestrians’ walkways and boardwalks with in the selected sites. T he connectivity shall allow bicycle traffic, improv ing both bicycle and pedestrian safety with traffic -free connections.When bicycle traffic is allowed, signage should be considered for bicycle and pedestrian use. ________________________________________________________________________A Appendix
signage specifications
B Appendix *Please note signage is still conceptual in nature and will be finalized at a later date.
bench specifications
C Appendix
bicycle rack specifications
D Appendix
If there is one magic on this planet, it is contained in water.-Loren Eiseley