LTC 282-2025 Convention Center Advisory Board MotionMIAMI BEACH
OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
LTC No. 282-2025 LETTER TO COMMISSION
TO: Honorable Mayor Steven Meiner and Members of the City Commission
FROM:
DATE:
Rafael E. Granado, City Clerk
July 10, 2025
SUBJECT: Convention Center Advisory Board Motion
The purpose of this Letter to Commission ("L TC") is to inform the Mayor and City Commission of an unanimously approved motion, by the Convention Center Advisory Board (CCAB) at its June 23, 2025 meeting.
Members present: Robin Jacobs (Chair); Antonio Hernandez (Vice-Chair); Marc Gidney; Chris Gloede (Ex-Officio); Bruce Gould; Prakash Kumar; Carl Linder; and Lee Zimmerman.
Motion:
1.Playground ProposalApprove the Parks & Recreation Department's proposed playground design for therecommended location. The proposed design thoughtfully complements the existing outdoor
gym equipment, enhancing recreational opportunities for all age groups. The CCAB expressesits appreciation to John Rebar for his leadership in ensuring an effective integration of new and existing recreational elements.
2.Respectfully recommends the development of a versatile , multi-use area adjacent toConvention Center Drive.
We propose that this area be designed to accommodate:
Event logistics support, particularly for move-in/move-out operations during events, helping to
further assist in alleviating traffic congestion on surrounding residential streets.
A flexible event space that can be programmed for cultural, civic, or commercial
activations.
Convertible pickleball courts or similar recreational amenities that serve the community
during non-event periods.
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This multi-functional area would not only enhance event-day logistics and reduce neighborhood
impact, but also provide a mutually beneficial space for residents, visitors, general public and event organizers alike-reinforcing Pride Park's role as a shared civic asset and a vibrant extension of the MBCC campus and district.
Importantly and strategically, this initiative also supports how we position, market, and activate the MBCC Campus and District including but not limited to the Grand Hyatt HQ Hotel, Holocaust Museum, Botanical Garden, Filmore Theatre, New World Center/ Symphony, Lincoln Road/
Washington Ave BIDs, etc. as a premier destination for global events, conventions, meetings and tradeshows.
It further strengthens our ability to deliver on the high expectations tied to the City's $640 million
investment in the MBCC and the estimated $600+ million Grand Hyatt Headquarters Hotel slated to open in late 2027. Together, these wonderful assets represent a transformative opportunity for Miami Beach.
While modest in scale, this proposed versatile/ multi-use space will have a meaningful impact in
the ability to drive economic growth enhance visitor experience and deliver long-term value to the community and surrounding neighborhoods.
CCAB remains fully committed to working collaboratively with all key stakeholders to explore design options, operational frameworks, and potential funding strategies that ensure this space serves economic and public interests. Our collective goal is to help shape a mutually beneficial space within Pride Park that reflects community and residential needs while supporting the continued success of the MBCC Campus/ District
3.Master Plan for Pride ParkInitiate a comprehensive Master Planning process for Pride Park led by the CCAB with aprojected completion date of February 2026. The planning process should include robustcommunity/ neighborhood engagement to ensure that the final plan reflects neighborhoodpriorities, the MBCC Campus and District, economic development, long-term sustainability, and
integrated design elements. These recommendations represent a thoughtful path forward inenhancing the area as a vibrant, accessible, and inclusive destination for all to enjoy.
Before the Commission proceeds with a vote on any proposed project, we respectfully remind
that in accordance with the City Charter and sound fiscal policy, any substantial capital
improvement should be accompanied by a detailed financial analysis and a five-year maintenance and operating cost budget. This ensures that the long-term sustainability and fiscal
impact of the project are fully understood and responsibly planned for.
Please contact Luis Wong, Administrative Service Manager, Economic Development
Department at LuisWong@miamibeachfl.gov should you have any questions.
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