Blueways-Master-PlanCITY OF MIAMI BEACH
BLUEWAYS
MASTER PLAN
FINAL MASTER PLAN BOOKLET
NOVEMBER 2014
PREPARED FOR:
PREPARED BY:
Planning and Landscape Architecture
with funding from Florida Inland Navigation District
Real Estate Advisory Services
Coastal, Marina, and Environmental Engineering
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 78-85
Conclusion 86-87
Contents
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Bookletiv
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
vIntroduction
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 Bookletvi
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
viiIntroduction
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.
Planning Process
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Bookletviii
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.
ixIntroduction
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Bookletx
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
xiIntroduction
sitelocation
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
Cit
y
B
o
u
n
d
a
r
y
Homestead
Miami
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet2
Miami
Beach
I-195
79th Street Causeway
I
-
9
5
I-395
Miami
Cit
y
B
o
u
n
d
a
r
y
City of Miami Beach
3Site Location
communityoutreach
KicK-off Meeting: aPril 17, 2014
coMMunity inPut Process
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 Booklet6
coMMunity inPut Meeting #1: June 3, 2014
coMMunity inPut Meeting #1 notes
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.
7Community Outreach
coMMunity inPut Word cloud
coMMunity inPut Word cloud
coMMunity feedbacK site diagraM
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
CroCodile Hole loCation
noBe aCCessiBle Portal, CMdC liBrary, 75tH
street Boardwalk
rowing CluB (Marketing - oPen to tHe PuBliC)
not enougH Parking
City-owned eMPty lot to Be inCluded in study
Potential youtH kayak aCCess Point
BeaCH walk
unoffiCial kayak launCH
aCCessiBle BeaCH (widest aCCess on Boardwalk)
waterfront street end 100’ wide (Parking at CluB)
Potential aCCess Point (Parking nearBy)
CoMMunity
feedBaCk
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet8
coMMunity inPut Meeting #2: august 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.
coMMunity inPut Meeting #1 notes
9Community Outreach
siteinventory
city of MiaMi beach - north
existing conditions aerial
areas of interest witHin tHe nortH BeaCH distriCt inClude:
1. CresPi Bridge PoCket Parks
2. nortH BeaCH waterfront street end
3. Parkview island waterfront Park
4. norMandy sHores Park
5. nortH BeaCH PoliCe suB-station Park
6. Brittany Bay Park
1
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2
3
2
2 2
2
2
2
2
4
5
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2 2
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City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet12
areas of interest witHin tHe nortH and Middle
BeaCH distriCts inClude:
1. la gorCe PoCket Park
2. la gorCe street end PoCket Park
3. nortH Bay street end PoCket Park
4. indian BeaCH Park
5. Pine tree Park
6. Muss Park
city of MiaMi beach - Middle/north
existing conditions aerial
1
2
4
3
5
6
13Site Inventory
areas of interest witHin tHe Middle and soutH
BeaCH distriCts inClude:
1. CHase avenue Parking lot
2. indian Creek street side Park
3. Mount sinai soutH oPen sPaCe
4. lake PanCoast
5. nortH Bay street end PoCket Park
6. sunset lake PoCket Park
7. Collins Canal
8. MauriCe giBB Park
9. soutH BeaCH street end
city of MiaMi beach - Middle/south
existing conditions aerial
1
3
2
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet14
areas of interest witHin tHe soutH BeaCH distriCt inClude:
1. linColn road street end PoCket Park
2. MonuMent island
3. 14tH street end PoCket Park
4. 10tH street end PoCket Park
5. MiaMi BeaCH Marina
6. soutH Point Park
city of MiaMi beach - south
existing conditions aerial
1
2 3
4
5
6
6
15Site Inventory
CresPi street end PoCket Parks
Parkview island PoCket Park
Parkview island waterfront Park
existing conditions site Photos
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 Booklet16
norMandy sHores street end PoCket Parks
nortH BeaCH PoliCe suB-station Park
norMandy sHores Park
17Site Inventory
norMandy isle street end PoCket Parks
Brittany Bay Park
sHane Boating Center
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet18
Muss Park
la gorCe PoCket Park
indian BeaCH Park
Pine tree Park
19Site Inventory
CHase avenue Parking lot
40tH street and indian Creek street side Park Collins Canal
27tH street waterfront area
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet20
MauriCe giBB Park MonuMent island
21Site Inventory
soutH Point Park10tH street end PoCket Parks
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet22
23Site Inventory
previousstudies
MiaMi beach strategic Plan 2011
uPdate
Water transit services March
2007 rePort
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 Point 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 Point Park, 10th Street, 14th Street, Lincoln
Road, Dade Boulevard, Mount Sinai Hospital, 65th Street, Normandy Shores Park,
and Tatum Waterway and Byron Avenue.
MIAMIBEACH STRATEGIC PLAN 1
MIAMIBEACH STRATEGIC PLAN 2011 UPDATE
The Plan to Make Miami Beach Even Better
Water Transit
Services
I.BACKGROUND
The Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) conducted two studies to evaluate the feasibility of
implementing waterborne services along Miami-Dade waterways. The first study determined the
feasibility of implementing such service along Biscayne Bay, the Miami River and in other canals within
the county. The second study recommended a plan for implementing the service mostly along the bay.
Based on these results, the MPO Governing Board and the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) passed
resolutions requesting additional efforts for implementing waterborne services along Biscayne Bay.
Following is a summary of these efforts:
1.A Request for Information (RFI) was issued requesting interested firms to provide a letter of
interest to participate in water transit services.
2.Three (3) firms submitted their proposals, 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 those items could not be successfully
overcome.
A. Permitting
For the operation of the service and the construction of terminal facilities, several permits are
required. The agencies that need to issue such permits are: U.S. Army Corps of Engineering (ACOE),
Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM), Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission, the State Department of Environmental Protection Agency, as well as the County and
municipal building and zoning departments. Additionally, 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 Procurement 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 - Steps Needed Before Starting the Service
Operator Participation – Environmental - Proposed Technology – Insurances
March 2007
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet26
city of MiaMi beach 2025
coMPrehensive Plan city of MiaMi beach greenWay
netWorK Master Plan
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
27Previous Studies
docuMenting trash in
MiaMi beach WaterWays
- dave doebler
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
revitalizing north beach
oceanfront ParKs through
PlaceMaKing
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
REVITALIZING NORTH BEACH OCEANFRONT PARKS THROUGH PLACEMAKING 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 Booklet28
city of MiaMi beach north beach
trolley circulator looP transit
route technical MeMoranduM
indian creeK greenWay strategies
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 MIAMIBEACH
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
economic 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 20th 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 20th Century architecture 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 wide 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 illustrates 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 followed by
single family residential and commercial. The study area 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 existing 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 restructuring 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. Decobike 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.
29Previous Studies
siteanalysis
baseline econoMic and deMograPhic Profile overvieW
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 Booklet32
Median HouseHold inCoMes By Census BloCk grouP
(2008-2012 aMeriCan CoMMunity survey)
CoMPound annual (PoPulation) growtH rate
2000-2010
33Site Analysis
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet34
Waterborne transPortation list
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.
35Site Analysis
Pollution and Marine debris
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 Booklet36
biscayne bay aquatic Preserve
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.
37Site Analysis
site Plancity-oWned Waterfront ProPerties
The City currently owns property along the
water at the ends of many streets, along
parks, and roadways. Some of these areas are
being utilized as a park and others have some
landscaping. There are others still that are not in
good condition and 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.
street end
loCations
oPen sPaCe
loCations
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet38
area of interest
legend
street end loCations
street end 5-10 Minute walk distanCes
oPen sPaCe loCations
oPen sPaCe 5-10 Minute walk distanCes
area of interest loCation
area end 5-10 Minute walk distanCes
city-oWned Waterfront ProPerties
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.
CoMBined
loCations
5-10 Minute
walks
39Site Analysis
Bikeway networkBikeway networkland use/Zoning
analysis diagraM
site diagraMs Bus stoPs
legend
existing Bikeway
ProPosed Bikeway
legend
existing Bikeway
ProPosed Bikeway
PriMarily residential areas
otHer uses inCluding CoMMerCial/offiCe
Bus stoPs
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet40
legend
areas witHin 10 Minute walk
MonuMent island landMark
existing Bikeway ConneCtions to 10 Min.
radius
ProPosed Bikeway ConneCtions to 10 Min.
radius
Potential Bay to oCean Pedestrian
ConneCtion
noBe residential areas Have good Pedestrian
ConneCtions to waterfront oPen sPaCes
neigHBorHoods Can Benefit froM additional
sidewalks wHiCH Can iMProve tHe Bay to oCean
Pedestrian ConneCtion.
Continuous ConneCtions exist along oCean-side. a
ConneCtion Can Be ProPosed along tHe islands on
tHe Bay side.oPen aCCess to residenCes froM tHe water
side May Create Potential risks to residents.
introduCing an aMenity or Zone seParation in tHe
Bay May HelP to reduCe tHis risk.
Boat sHow event loCation. oPPortunity to Provide
Pedestrian ProMenade along indian Creek.
Potential ConneCtion aCross islands froM tHe
intraCoastal to tHe oCean.
soBe residential areas Have liMited Pedestrian
aCCess to water, non-residential uses Have even less.
ProPosed Bikeways Can Create a stronger link.
MonuMent island is an existing landMark.
oPPortunities to Provide Boat doCking and
Breakwater eleMents to reduCe Coastal erosion.
Potential Pedestrian ConneCtions froM tHe
intraCoastal to tHe oCean
no water transit exists. oPPortunity to Provide
water taxi serviCe as studied in Past ProPosals.
Boats Currently stay in tHis area for extended
Periods of tiMe. oPPortunity for Mooring field.
existing Bay walk Provides an oPPortunity to
extend nortH.
site
analysis
diagraM
legend
areas witHin 10 Minute walk of tHe water
MonuMent island landMark
existing Bikeway ConneCtions to 10 Min.
radius
ProPosed Bikeway ConneCtions to 10 Min.
radius
Potential Bay to oCean Pedestrian
ConneCtion
site analysis
noBe residential areas Have good Pedestrian
ConneCtions to waterfront oPen sPaCes
neigHBorHoods Can Benefit froM additional
sidewalks wHiCH Can iMProve tHe Bay to oCean
Pedestrian ConneCtion.
Continuous ConneCtions exist along oCean-side. a
ConneCtion Can Be ProPosed along tHe islands on
tHe Bay side.oPen aCCess to residenCes froM tHe water
side May Create Potential risks to residents.
introduCing an aMenity or Zone seParation in tHe
Bay May HelP to reduCe tHis risk.
Boat sHow event loCation. oPPortunity to Provide
Pedestrian ProMenade along indian Creek.
Potential ConneCtion aCross islands froM tHe
intraCoastal to tHe oCean.
soBe residential areas Have liMited Pedestrian
aCCess to water, non-residential uses Have even less.
ProPosed Bikeways Can Create a stronger link.
MonuMent island is an existing landMark.
oPPortunities to Provide Boat doCking and
Breakwater eleMents to reduCe Coastal erosion.
Potential Pedestrian ConneCtions froM tHe
intraCoastal to tHe oCean
no water transit exists. oPPortunity to Provide
water taxi serviCe as studied in Past ProPosals.
Boats Currently stay in tHis area for extended
Periods of tiMe. oPPortunity for Mooring field.
existing Bay walk Provides an oPPortunity to
extend nortH.
site
analysis
diagraM
Site Analysis 41
masterplan
Plan nortH
enlargeMent
Plan soutH
enlargeMent
Master Plan diagraM
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet44
legend
areas of interest
Bay-oCean ConneCtions
Potential MotoriZed water taxi
Pedestrian ProMenade
Breakwater/Mangrove HaBitat
Master Plan diagraM
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 End Pocket Parks
• 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
45Master Plan
concePt Master Plan - north
ProPosed iMProveMents witHin tHe nortH BeaCH distriCt
inClude tHe Creation of residential PoCket Parks utiliZing
street ends and Providing aCCess to tHe water.
1. CresPi Bridge PoCket Parks and launCH
2. nortH BeaCH street end PoCket Park and launCH
3. Parkview island waterfront Park, launCH, and doCk
4. norMandy sHores Park and doCk
5. nortH BeaCH PoliCe suB-station Park and launCH
6. Brittany Bay Park, launCH and doCk
7. Mangrove HaBitats
1
2
2
2
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
4
5
67
7
7
7
2
2 2
2
2
2
2
2
2
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet46
ProPosed iMProveMents witHin tHe nortH and Middle
BeaCH distriCts inClude renovating existing oPen sPaCes
to enHanCe tHe CoMMunities water aCCess.
1. la gorCe PoCket Park and launCH
2. la gorCe street end PoCket Park and launCH
3. nortH Bay street end PoCket Park and launCH
4. indian BeaCH Park and doCks
5. Pine tree Park
6. Muss Park, launCH and doCks
7. Mangrove HaBitats
concePt Master Plan - Middle/north
1
2
3
5
4
6
7
7
7
7
47Master Plan
ProPosed iMProveMents witHin tHe Middle and soutH BeaCH
distriCts inClude, Park uPdates, living sHorelines and Pedestrian
ConneCtivity iMProveMents.
1. CHase avenue Parking lot
2. indian Creek street side Park
3. Mount sinai soutH oPen sPaCe
4. lake PanCoast
5. residential PoCket Park
6. Collins Canal living sHorelines and doCk
7. MauriCe giBBs doCk and launCH enHanCeMents
8. soutH BeaCH street end Park
9. Pedestrian ProMenades
10. Mangrove HaBitats
concePt Master Plan - Middle/south
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 Booklet48
ProPosed iMProveMents witHin tHe soutH BeaCH distriCt
inClude ModifiCations to existing landMarks like MonuMent
island and soutH Pointe Park.
1. linColn road street end PoCket Park and doCk
2. MonuMent island doCk and enHanCeMents
3. 14tH street end PoCket Park and doCk
4. 10tH street end PoCket Park and doCk
5. Pedestrian ProMenade
6. soutH Point Park and doCk
7. Mangrove HaBitats
concePt Master Plan - south 1
2 3
4
5
5
5
6
5
7
7
49Master Plan
focusareas
foCus areas: site enlargeMents
foCus areas: City-wide aCtivities
1. soutH Point Park
2. tyPiCal soutH BeaCH street end PoCket Parks
3. MonuMent island
4. MauriCe giBB Park
5. Collins Canal
6. lake PanCoast
7. indian BeaCH Park
8. tyPiCal residential neigHBorHood PoCket Parks
A. living sHorelines
B. Mangrove HaBitats
C. kayak/suP launCHes
D. Pedestrian ProMenades
E. sea level rise adaPtation
F. signage and Branding
1 1
3 4
2 3
existing site PHotos
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet52
ConCePt Master
Plan
1
4
4 4
3
8
8
2
2
2
7
5
6 6 7
8
8
8
8
B
B
B
B
8 8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
existing site PHotos
53Focus Areas
existing site PHotos
south Pointe ParK
MediuM to long terM iMPleMentation
Potential iMProveMents:
1. water taxi stoP
2. day-use doCk
3. living sHoreline
enHanCeMent
4. Mangrove HaBitat
5. sunken viewing ClassrooM
6. ProMenade extension
key MaP
soutH Pointe Park ConCePt enlargeMent
4
1
2
3
3
5
6
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet54
south Pointe ParK
MediuM to long terM iMPleMentation
PrograMMing initiatives and
ConCePt aCtivities:
1. water taxi serviCes
2. day-use Boat doCking
3. living sHoreline HaBitat
enHanCeMent
4. Mangrove viewing HaBitat
5. sunken viewing ClassrooM/
oBservation deCk
6. Pedestrian ProMenade
7. Park sPaCe
8. safe waterfront seating
witH ligHting
9. Bird watCHing Point
10. look-out Point/viewing
telesCoPe
11. Bike trail witH Bike raCks
soutH Pointe Park PrograMMing aCtivities
55Focus Areas
south beach street end PocKet ParK
MediuM terM iMPleMentation
soBe street end PoCket Park ConCePt enlargeMentexisting site PHotos
Potential iMProveMents:
1. water taxi stoP
2. day-use doCk
3. droP-off area
4. viewing/seating area
witH site furniture:
BenCHes, trasH/reCyCling
reCePtaCles, Bike storage,
and ligHting
5. iMProved Pedestrian
ConneCtivity
key MaP
1
2
3
4
5
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet56
south beach street end PocKet ParK
MediuM terM iMPleMentation
PrograMMing initiatives and
ConCePt aCtivities:
1. water taxi serviCes
2. day-use Boat doCking
3. Pedestrian ProMenade
ConneCtion
4. safe waterfront seating
witH ligHting
5. ConneCtion to Bike
network witH Bike raCks
6. PerPendiCular on-street
Parking faCilities
soBe street end PoCket Park PrograMMing aCtivities
57Focus Areas
MonuMent island
MediuM terM iMPleMentation
HistoriC site PHotos
MonuMent island ConCePt enlargeMent
1
3
3
4
4
4
5
5
5
6 3
3
2
Potential iMProveMents:
1. water taxi stoP
2. day-use doCk
3. Planned vegetation
enHanCeMents
4. CrusHed sHell/gravel
PatHway
5. sHoreline staBiliZation
6. BeaCH iMProveMents,
inCluding day PiCniC sites,
and trasH/reCyCling
reCePtaCles
key MaP
existing site PHotos
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet58
MonuMent island
MediuM terM iMPleMentation
PrograMMing initiatives and
ConCePt aCtivities:
1. water taxi serviCes
2. day-use Boat doCking
3. kayaking, Canoeing, and
stand-uP PaddleBoarding
4. living sHoreline HaBitat
enHanCeMent and
staBiliZation
5. day PiCniC sites
6. nature walk
7. BeaCH-side swiMMing,
sunning and aCtivities
MonuMent island PrograMMing aCtivities
59Focus Areas
Maurice gibb ParK
short to long terM iMPleMentation
existing site PHotos
MauriCe giBB Park ConCePt enlargeMent
Potential iMProveMents:
1. water taxi stoP/dingHy doCk
2. existing Boat launCH
3. kayak/suP launCH
4. kayak/suP vendor Pavilion and droP-off
5. iMProved Pedestrian aCCess to launCH
6. Managed Mooring field
7. Pedestrian Bridge aCross Canal iMProving Pedestrian aCCess froM
tHe soutH and linColn road
8. living sHoreline enHanCeMents
9. existing Park sPaCe
key MaP
4
43
1
2
8
8
8
8
6
6
6
7
9
9
5
5
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet60
Maurice gibb ParK
short to long terM iMPleMentation
PrograMMing initiatives and
ConCePt aCtivities:
1. water taxi serviCes
2. Boat launCH
3. day-use dingHy doCking
4. living sHoreline HaBitat
enHanCeMent
5. Park sPaCe
6. safe waterfront seating
witH ligHting
7. Bird watCHing Points/
viewing telesCoPe
8. inCreased Pedestrian
ConneCtivity and Pedestrian
Bridge
9. inCorPoration into City-
wide Bike network and
inClusion of Bike raCks
MauriCe giBB Park PrograMMing aCtivities
61Focus Areas
collins canal
MediuM terM iMPleMentation
existing site PHotos
Collins Canal ConCePt enlargeMent
1
1 1
2
4
4
3
3
Potential iMProveMents:
1. iMProved Pedestrian
Crosswalk and ConneCtion
2. side-tie day-use Boat/
kayak doCk
3. Managed living sHoreline
enHanCeMents
4. ConneCtion to Collins
Canal Multi-use PatH
key MaP
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet62
collins canal
MediuM terM iMPleMentation
PrograMMing initiatives and
ConCePt aCtivities:
1. side-tie day-use MotoriZed
and non-MotoriZed doCk
2. inCreased Pedestrian
ConneCtivity
3. inCorPoration into City-
wide Bike network
4. living sHoreline and
HaBitat enHanCeMent
5. Potential loCal fisHing
loCations
Collins Canal PrograMMing aCtivities
63Focus Areas
existing site PHotos
lake PanCoast ConCePt enlargeMent
1
2
3
34
4
5
5
6
6
6
6
6
Potential iMProveMents:
1. day-use doCk
2. iMProved Crosswalks at
interseCtions
3. sidewalk witH ProteCtive
Barrier along roadway
4. elevated Pedestrian
Boardwalk ProMenade
5. Managed living sHoreline
enHanCeMents
6. site furniture: seating,
trasH/reCyCling
reCePtaCles, Bike storage,
and ligHting
key MaP
laKe Pancoast
long terM iMPleMentation
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet64
PrograMMing initiatives and
ConCePt aCtivities:
1. Pedestrian ProMenade
Boardwalk ConneCtion
2. inCorPoration into City-
wide Bike network
3. iMProved sHoreline natural
landsCaPing and living
sHoreline enHanCeMent
4. extension of existing
sidewalk
5. iMProved Pedestrian
ConneCtivity to surrounding
areas
6. HeigHtened trasH CleanuP
and ColleCtion Measures
lake PanCoast PrograMMing aCtivities
laKe Pancoast
long terM iMPleMentation
65Focus Areas
laKe Pancoast
long terM iMPleMentation
existing roadway day-use doCk Beyond waterway
Mangrove
+ sHoreline
vegetation
Planting + Multi-use
Boardwalksidewalk
extension
lake PanCoast ConCePtual site seCtion
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet66
laKe Pancoast
long terM iMPleMentation
lake PanCoast ConCePtual view
67Focus Areas
indian beach ParK
long terM iMPleMentation
existing site PHotos
indian BeaCH Park ConCePt enlargeMent
1
1
1
3
3
4
2
2
7
7
5
5
5
5
Potential iMProveMents:
1. iMProved Pedestrian
ConneCtion to BeaCH
2. vendor Pavilion
3. exPanded day use doCk
(PerforManCe Based)
4. Maintained living sHoreline
5. site furniture: seating,
trasH/reCyCling
reCePtaCles, Bike storage
6. existing indian BeaCH Park
7. existing Parking
key MaP
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet68
indian beach ParK
long terM iMPleMentation
PrograMMing initiatives and
ConCePt aCtivities:
1. iMProved Pedestrian
ConneCtivity to surrounding
areas
2. inCorPoration into City-
wide Bike network
3. living sHoreline
enHanCeMent
4. enHanCeMent of existing
sidewalk
5. day-use Boat doCking
6. Potential kayak launCH
and vendor kiosks
indian BeaCH Park PrograMMing aCtivities
69Focus Areas
residential neighborhood PocKet ParK
short terM iMPleMentation
tyPiCal residential neigHBorHood PoCket Park
ConCePt enlargeMent
tyPiCal residential neigHBorHood PoCket Park ConCePt enlargeMent
1
2
3
4
4
1
4
2
2
3
existing site PHotos
Potential iMProveMents:
1. droP-off area
2. viewing/seating area
3. neigHBorHood day use doCk
4. neigHBorHood kayak and stand-
uP Paddle Board launCH
5. site furniture: seating, trasH/
reCyCling reCePtaCles, Bike
storage, and ligHting
key MaP
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet70
residential neighborhood PocKet ParK
short terM iMPleMentation
PrograMMing initiatives and
ConCePt aCtivities:
1. Potential doCk loCation
for sHort terM use
(neigHBorHood use loading
and unloading)
2. Potential kayak/suP
launCH
3. iMProved landsCaPing, and
site ligHting
4. waterfront seating and
PuBliC use event sHelters
5. ConneCtion into City-wide
Bike network and Pedestrian
ConneCtivity
6. Bike raCks
residential neigHBorHood PoCket Park PrograMMing aCtivities
71Focus Areas
residential neighborhood PocKet ParK
short terM iMPleMentation
veHiCular droP-off area CoMMunity gaZeBo area PatHway and Planting Potential kayak launCH waterway
waterfront
seating area
+ seawall
residential neigHBorHood PoCket Park ConCePtual site seCtion
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet72
residential neighborhood PocKet ParK
short terM iMPleMentation
residential neigHBorHood PoCket Park ConCePtual view
73Focus Areas
city-Wide activities
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.City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet74
city-Wide activities
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.75Focus Areas
recreational and coMMercial boating
infrastructure iMProveMents
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 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.
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. 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 Booklet76
WaterWay infrastructure iMProveMents
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.
77Focus Areas
implementation
Phasing Plan and iMPleMentation strategies
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
S
h
o
r
t
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
S
h
o
r
t
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
S
h
o
r
t
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
S
h
o
r
t
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
S
h
o
r
t
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 Booklet80
Low Hanging Fruit:
Marketing Campaign
S
h
o
r
t
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.
Artificial Habitat Creation
S
h
o
r
t
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
M
e
d
i
u
m
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
M
e
d
i
u
m
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
M
e
d
i
u
m
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.
Mooring Field
M
e
d
i
u
m
The City should consider converting the area currently utilized by many near Maurice Gibb Park into a City-owned Mooring Field.
Once feasibility and approvals have been acquired, proper facilities should be created.
81Implementation
Improve Pedestrian Connectivity
M
e
d
i
u
m
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
M
e
d
i
u
m
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
M
e
d
i
u
m
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
M
e
d
i
u
m
+
L
o
n
g
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
L
o
n
g
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.
Water Taxi
L
o
n
g
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.
City of Miami Beach BLUEWAYS Master Plan
Final Master Plan Booklet82
Pedestrian Bridge
L
o
n
g
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
L
o
n
g
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
L
o
n
g
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
L
o
n
g
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
L
o
n
g
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.
83Implementation
Potential fundraising oPPortunities
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 Booklet84
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 or
in-kind services 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.
FIND also administers the Small-Scale Spoil Island Restoration
& Enhancement Program. Elements of the Blueways Master
Plan may be eligible to participate in this 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.
85Implementation
conclusion
87
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
If there is one magic on this planet, it is contained in water.
-Loren Eiseley