LTC 069-2022 Final Committee Report of the Mayor's Art Deco Cultural District PanelDocuSign Envelope ID: A7108E43-C83D-4FA3-B737-1629E15291B5
MIAMI BEACH
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
NO. LTC#
069-2022
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
LETT ER TO COMMISSION
Honorable Mayor Dan Gelber and Members of the City Commission
Œ
OocuSigned by:
Alina T. Hudak , City Man age/ qui„a. Hu.lad
Feb ruary 22, 2022 ·7Azor4ors4oe.
Final Committee Report of the Mayor's Art Deco Cultural District Panel
This Letter to Commission (L TC) is to advise the Mayor and City Commissioners regarding the
February 18, 2022 motion by the Mayor's Art Deco Cultural District Panel ("Pa nel") recommen ding
the adoption of its Final Committee Report ("Final Committee Repor t") for transmittal to the Mayor
and City Commission. See Exhibit A -Final Committee Report of the Panel dated February 18,
2022.
On December 7, 2020, Mayor Dan Gelber created the Panel to advise the City's consultant,
Zyscovich Architects ("Zyscovich"), in preparation of a comprehensive land use, mobility, and
economic development study (the "ADCD Vision Plan") for the Mixed-Use Entertainment/Art Deco
Cultural District (the "AD CD"), pursuant to City Commission Resolution No. 2020-31388. Th e
Mayor appointed Jonathan Plutzik as Chair and Jonathan Freidin as Vice-Chair of the Panel.
Since January 8, 2021, the Panel convened for twenty-two (22) publicly noticed meetings, each
with robust public comment and participation, ensuring that the Panel fostered community
engagement in the development of the ADCD Vision Plan. During its 15-month tenure, Panel
meetings featured workshop presentations by subject matter experts including the consultant
team (Zyscovich , Town Square Corp., Kittelson, Lambert Advisory, Gehl, and Raymond Jungles),
City staff, and guest speakers like urbanist Richard Florida. On June 23, 2021, Zyscovich
presented a progress report with initial recommendations to the Mayor and City Commission, who
expressed support for the consultant's transformative vision.
On December 17, 2021, upon presentation by Zyscovich, the Panel provided input and
commentary on the draft ADCD Vision Plan, which was incorporated by the consultant and
detailed in a presentation at the Panel's subsequent meeting on Jan uary 28, 2022. See Exhibit B
(Executive Summary) and Exhibit C (Draft ADCD Vision Plan - available at
https://docm gmt.miami beachfl.gov/W ebL ink/DocView.aspx ?id=279874&dbid=0&rep o =CityClerk.
On February 18, 2022, the Panel discussed and prepared the Final Committee Report, as
requested by Mayor Gelber in his Decem ber 7, 2020 memorandum creating the Panel. The
majority of the Panel expressed support for Zyscovich's ADCD Vision Plan as drafted and
requested that the Final Committee Report be transmitted to the Mayor and City Commission with
key recommendations and findings.
DocuSign Envelope ID: A7108E43-C83D-4FA3-B737-1629E15291B5
Letter to Commission - Mayor's AOCO Panel Final Report
February 22, 2022
Page 2 of 2
Members Present: Jonathan Putzik (Ch air), Daniel Giraldo, Tom Donall, Robin Jacobs, Kim
Kovel, Jane Krupp, Marc Lawrence, Salem Mounayyer, Jennifer Roberts,
John Stuart, and Curtis Slipman. (Absent: Nisi Berryman)
Motion: The Panel adopts the Final Committee Report as drafted and authorizes
Panel chair Jonathan Plutzik and City staff to modify the document with the
limited and specific key recommendations agreed upon by the Panel at its
February 18, 2022 meeting. The Panel further requests transmittal of the
Final Committee Report to the Mayor and City Commission.
Motion made by:
Seconded by:
Passed:
Marc Lawrence
Curtis Slipman
9 to 3
(Daniel Giraldo, Jane Krupp, and Salem Mounayyer voted against; Nisi
Berryman was not present during the meeting, but provided written
approval of the Final Committee Report and motion)
Any questions about the foregoing may be directed to Rickelle Wi lliams, Economic Development
Director, rickellewilliams@miamibeachfl.gov or Justin Karr, AOCO Panel liaison,
justinkarr@m iamibe ach fl.goy.
Exhibits
A. Final Committee Report dated February 18, 2022
B. AOCO Vision Plan Executive Summary
C. AOCO Draft Vision Plan available at:
https://docm amt._miamibeachf._goy/yebLink/Doc/iew._aspx?id=279874&dbid=0&repo=CityClerk
EX HIB IT A
... <il;,.'1ßtACH
ART DECO e • CULT URAL DISTRICT
FINAL REPORT OF THE
MAYOR'S ART DECO CULTURAL DISTRICT PANEL
Panel Members:
Jonathan Plutzik, Chair
Jonathan Freidin, Vice-Chair
Nisi Berryman
Nicole Bostick***
Daniel Ciraldo
Ricardo Dopico**
Tom Donall
Kim Kovel
Robin Jacobs
Jane Krupp
Marc Lawrence
Dawn McCall*
Salem Mounayyer
Jennifer Roberts
Curtis Slipman
John Stuart
Ricardo Tabet*
last meeting attended:
December 15, 2021
++ October 29, 2021
++ June 4, 2021
F I N A L R E P O R T O F T H E
MA Y O R 'S A R T D E C O C U L T U RA L D I S T R I C T P A N E L
F E B R U A R Y 1 8, 2 0 2 2
B a c k g r o u n d
Mayor Dan Gelber established the Mayor's Art Deco Cultural District Panel (the "Panel") on
December 7, 2020 to assist the City's urban design and planning consultant, Zyscovich Architects
(the "Consultant" or "Zyscovich"), in the Consultant's preparation of a comprehensive land use,
mobility and economic development planning study (the "Vision Plan" or "Zyscovich Plan") for
the Mixed-Use Entertainment/Art Deco Cultural District (the "ADCD" or the "District"), as
authorized pursuant to City Commission Resolution No. 2020-31388. The Mayor appointed
Jonathan Plutzik as Chair and Jonathan Freidin as Vice-Chair.
Panel Mission
The Panel was created pursuant to the Mayor's authority to establish boards or committees under
Section 2-27(b )(2) of the City Code. The mission of the Panel is to study and make
recomm endations as to how to improve the experience for residents and visitors of the District.
Summary of Activities
On January 8, 2021, the Panel convened the first of twenty-two (22) meetings. Each meeting was
publicly noticed and benefited from robust public comment and participation, ensuring that the
Panel helped foster active community engagement in the development of the Consultant's final
work product. At every Panel meeting, during its 15-month tenure, the Panel received
presentations and updates from subject matter experts including from the Consultant team
(Zyscovich, Town Square Corp., Kittelson & Associates, Lambert Advisory, Gehl and Raymond
Jungles Landscaping), multiple City staff, and guest speakers including urbanist Richard Florida.
Initial meetings of the Panel included presentations and discussions regarding Ocean Drive traffic
configuration options and side street challenges, enhancement of public safety measures, proposed
amendments to the Land Development Regulations, and the Consultant's proposal for expansion
of Lummus Park.
• On January 22, 2021, Zyscovich led a discussion regarding alternative pilot options for
consideration regarding vehicular traffic on Ocean Drive. The alternative options proposed
various iterations of a one-way southbound street, including different traffic access points,
incorporation of pedestrian zones, and use of access limitation devices. While the Panel
did not have complete unanimity regarding the re-introduction of vehicles, the Panel
articulated a general preference for prioritizing the pedestrian experience of Ocean Drive.
The Panel appreciates the continued pursuit of a pedestrian and bicycle rich emphasis for
the entire ADCD reflected in the final Zyscovich Plan.
• Zyscovich also introduced the concept of more than doubling the size of Lummus Park by
utilizing the park area between the dune and coral rock wall and extending the reach of the
park up to the Ocean Drive buildings by removing street curbs and harmonizing the grade
Page 2 of8
of the street and park. Although this preliminary concept requires much further analysis,
the Panel is very enthusiastic about the idea of enlarging the public park and enhancing the
public's use of the space. The Panel encourages the City Commission to consider
immediately authorizing the development of an RFQ for Lummus Park expansion design.
• On February 12, 2021, Zyscovich led a discussion amongst the Panel and staff from the
City's Parking and Transportation Departments regarding east-west side streets
intersecting Collins A venue and Ocean Drive. The Panel encouraged the Consultant to
examine and seek methods for alleviating utilization and access issues experienced with
these side streets including: commercial loading and existing designated zones conflicting
with other uses; negative impacts on traffic, access, and circulation on side streets; parking
and rideshare concerns; valet parking operations; directional signage; lighting; and trash
collection. The Panel believes that further examination of the Zyscovich recommendation
to consider making the streets that terminate on Ocean Drive one way east or west is worthy
of immediate additional study.
• Planning Department staff also introduced proposed amendments to Chapter 142 of the
Land Development Regulations and Zyscovich began the discussion with the Panel
regarding how modification of zoning and land use regulations could help encourage
and/or deter activities and uses in the District. The Panel acknowledged how the District's
aged, historic building stock presented limitations and expressed interest in examining
proposed amendments that could positively impact activities and/or encourage investment
arid adaptive reuse of buildings. The Panel was clear in its view that the historic façade
architecture and related interior public spaces on Ocean Drive and in much of the ADCD
is sacrosanct. It was historically protected by a determined group of citizens and has
critically shaped our community, lifestyle and brand and it is essential that we embrace its
continuing iconic role in defining our future.
In February and March 2021, at the request of Chair Plutzik, the Panel assisted the City
Administration in compiling "Quick Wins" suggestions, a diverse list of over 100 short-term,
actionable items aimed at improving the appearance and quality of life within the ADCD. Over
the remainder of the Panel's term, members of the City Administration returned to provide
progress reports on implementation of feasible Quick Wins measures throughout the ADCD,
including updates and progress reports on various relevant matters impacting the District, such as
the Ocean Drive right-of-way configuration, high impact events, cultural activations and
programming, and marketing and branding initiatives. The Panel continues to believe there are
many other opportunities for "Quick Wins" in the ADCD. It is essential that we keep after such
opportunities to improve conditions, many seeming superficial or cosmetic but critically important,
in the ADCD every day. We don't have "broken windows", but the same motivation applies.
The Consultant team delivered several in-depth workshops and presentations on analysis of the
planning concerns underpinning the Consultant's scope, including focused workshops featuring
the expertise of sub-consultants.
Page 3 of8
• On March 12, 2021, sub-consultant Kittelson & Associates offered a presentation on
Transportation and Mobility Initial Observations, highlighting initial findings from
mobility analysis on topics including transit routes, planning for modal priorities and
multimodal facilities, safety issues and opportunities, and curb management. The Panel
displayed interest in the pre-COVID-19 statistical data demonstrating decreasing
dependence on automobiles in favor of bicycle and pedestrian movement.
• On March 26, 2021, sub-consultants Gehl Architects and Town Square presented a
workshop on Street Life and Programming, including an introduction to the concept of an
independent management entity for Lummus Park such as a conservancy. The Panel
embraced concepts presented in the workshop including the need to identify shared
priorities to guide ADCD planning, consideration of effective management models for
Lummus Park, and building awareness for "putting people first" in the design process. To
achieve our placemaking objectives in the ADCD, the Panel encourages the City
Commission to explore best practices concerning governance. The Panel attached value to
the input of Zyscovich team member and placemaking expert Jerome Barth in this process.
We encourage the Commission to explore Conservancy models for the management of
Lummus Park, Ocean Drive, and the greater ADCD.
• On April 23, 2021, Zyscovich and sub-consultant Lambert Advisory led a workshop on
Retail, Tourism, and Entertainment Potential. The Panel discussed the office market as it
relates to the District, how to encourage certain uses and business operations, and how an
expansion of the Lummus Park footprint could benefit the economic vitality of Ocean
Drive.
• On May 21, 2021, Bernard Zyscovich led an intensive workshop on Urban Design, Open
Space, Mobility, and Transit, held in person at the historic Collins Avenue facing Carlton
Hotel which in 2017 was made part of the Ocean Drive facing Betsy Hotel complex. As
Zyscovich presented the vision for the character of the District, the Panel generally
expressed support for Zyscovich's identified objectives, such as protecting the District's
history and character; rebalancing hotels, the hospitality industry, and residential activities;
expanding the landscape to create a great park and public spaces; enhancing the character
of the street scenes; and managing density to welcome all people. During a subsequent
discussion on June 4, 2021, members of the Panel agreed that access control tactics such
as congestion price or physical barriers like bollards deem further exploration. The Panel
endorses the exploration of a congestion traffic pricing program for the ADCD. Whatever
balance the Commission ultimately strikes concerning vehicular vs pedestrian activity,
using modem technology tools to effectively manage ADCD vehicular traffic is an
essential long-term priority.
• On June 18, 2021, Zyscovich and sub-consultant Lambert Advisory presented a workshop
on Land Use and Zoning considerations including discussion with the Panel of east-west
connections in the District, activation of alleyways, and responsive management of public
spaces. The Panel embraced the need to focus on east-west connections and advocated for
Page 4 of8
g r e a t e r c o n s id e ra t io n fo r th e s h a re d d y n a m ic a m o n g b ic y cl e s a n d v e h icl e s w ith p e d e s tri a n s
in th e s t r e e t.
O n J u n e 2 3 , 2 0 2 1 , a p p ro x im a te ly h a lfw a y thr o u g h th e P a n e l 's in it ia l te rm , Z y s c o v ic h p r e p a r e d a
d ra ft c o n c e p tu a l p la n b a s e d o n th e P a n e l's in p u t fr o m th e p r e c e d in g w o r k s h o p s a n d p r e s e n te d th e
d ra ft c o n c e p t a s a p ro g r e s s r e p o rt to th e C ity C o m m is s io n . T h e p r e s e n ta tio n s u mm a r iz e d th e
d is c u s s i o n s a n d t o p ic s o f th e c o m m it t e e to d a te a n d p r e s e n te d a n o u t lin e o f th e C o n s u lta n t's
p ro p o s e d s tu d y c o n c e p t s a n d r e c o m m e n d a t io n s . T h e C ity C o m m is s io n w a s g e n e ra ll y re c e p tiv e to
th e C o n s u lt a n t 's b o ld d ir e c t io n a n d id e a s s u rr o u n d in g u r b a n p la nn in g a n d L u m m u s P a r k a n d
o ffe r e d s u p p o r t fo r th e tra n s fo rm a t iv e n a tu r e o f h is v is io n .
D u ri n g o n g o i n g d is c u s s io n s r e g a r d in g th e C o n s u lt a n t 's c o n c e p tu a l p la n a n d c o n c e rn in g
p r e s e n t a t io n s m a d e b y m e m b e r s o f th e C i ty A d m in is tra tio n a t s u b s e q u e n t m e e tin g s , th e P a n e l
v o t e d to a d o p t th e fo ll o w in g m o t io n s :
• J u ly 2 , 2 0 2 1 : R e c o mm e n d e d th a t th e C ity s u p p o r ts th e P a n e l's e ffo rt s b y o b ta in in g
e m p ir ic a l d a t a , s u c h a s c o n d u c t in g a s ta tis t ic a l s u r v e y , o f th e c o m m u n ity 's p e r c e p t io n s
a b o u t e x i s t in g c o n d it io n s o n O c e a n D ri v e a n d th e v a r io u s tra n s p o rt a tio n a n d m o b ili ty
o p t io n s p ro p o s e d , in cl u d in g s p e c ifi c a ll y w h e th e r to in cl u d e v e h ic u la r tra ffi c .
• Ju ly 1 6 , 2 0 2 1 : T o e x p r e s s s u p p o r t fo r th e C ity C o m m is s io n 's in it ia tiv e s a n d th e a ll o c a tio n
o f fu n d in g fo r c u ltu ra l a c t iv a tio n s in L u m m u s P a r k a n d e ls e w h e r e in th e D is tr ic t.
R e c o g n iz i n g th e im p o r ta n t ro le o f p l a c e m a k in g , c u ltu ra l a c tiv a tio n s s h o u ld b e c o mm u n ity -
b u i l d in g a n d b a s e d o n a n e d u c a tio n a l o r n o t-fo r -p ro fit id e o lo g y .
• O c t ob er 2 9 , 2 0 2 1: I n r e s p o n s e to th e O c to b e r 2 7 , 2 0 2 1 , d ir e c tio n b y th e C ity C o mm is s io n
r e g a r d i n g th e R e s t a u ra n t R e c o v e ry O u td o o r S e a tin g P ilo t P ro g ra m , th e S id e w a lk C a fé
P e rm i t P ro g ra m , a n d th e O c e a n D ri v e I n te r im R e c o n fi g u ra tio n , th e P a n e l re c o g n iz e s th e
c o m p l e x i ty in v o lv e d in r e m o v in g e x is tin g c a fé s fr o m th e ri g h t-o f-w a y a n d in s ta lli n g n e w
p a r k l e t s w h e n A rt B a s e l a n d th e h o lid a y s a r e s o o n a p p ro a c h in g . T h e C o mm itt e e e n c o u ra g e s
th e C i ty M a n a g e r to c a r e fu ll y c o n s id e r p o t e n tia l a d v e r s e im p a c ts , to a v o id c o n s tru c tio n
d u ri n g h ig h im p a c t p e ri o d s , a n d p e r h a p s r e fr a in fr o m im p le m e n ta tio n u n til a fte r th e N e w
Y e a r 's h o l i d a y .
O n D e c e m b e r 1 7 , 2 0 2 1 , B e rn a r d Z y s c o v ic h d e liv e r e d to th e P a n e l a p r e s e n ta tio n o n th e d ra ft
V i s i o n P l a n fi n d in g s a n d p ro v id e d th e c o mm itt e e a n o p p o rtu n ity to o ffe r fi n a l inp u t a n d
c o m m e n t a ry . A c c o r d in g ly , th e C o n s u lta n t r e v is e d its r e p o rt to in c o rp o ra te s u g g e s tio n s m a d e b y
th e P a n e l, in c lu d i n g : im p ro v in g th e d e s c r ip t io n o f th e "R e s p o n s iv e M a n a g e m e n t o f P u b lic S p a c e s "
s e c t io n ; m o d ifi c a t io n s to th e p ro p o s e d la n d s c a p e s c h e m e o p tio n s a n d u p d a tin g re n d e r in g s to b e tt e r
d e p i c t r e t e n t io n o f th e e x is t in g c o c o n u t p a lm c a n o p y ; ill u s tra tin g p o t e n tia l o p tio n s fo r in s ta ll in g
p ub l i c a rt a n d an ur b a n p l a z a a t the street end at 10"" Street; as well as enhancing the persuasiveness
of the visioning through the addition of new renderings and aerial images depicting the "before
and after" transition from existing to proposed conditions.
Page 5 of8
Su m m ary R ecom m en d ation s an d O b servation s
The Panel has spent 15 months listening, discussing, evaluating, and participating in the
development of the issues and underpinnings of the Vision Plan. The Panel recognizes that the
Vision Plan is not intended to address any one underlying issue or element of planning, nor does
it purport to deliver distilled design specifications. Therefore, its composite elements will require
substantial further honing and analysis for the conceptual vision to be implementation ready.
The Panel commends the efforts of the Zyscovich-led team to produce a holistic and long-term
conceptual vision for use going forward as a tool in the City's efforts to reimagine the District and
improve the status quo. The Panel salutes the Zyscovich vision of a substantially expanded
Lummus Park, east to the dunes, west to the historic Ocean Drive facades and integrated in the
side streets extending to the east side of Washington Avenue. The vision of the flexible meandering
pathway to allow for an enhanced and enlarged promenade area is also of interest to the Panel. The
final Zyscovich report is, of course, simply a vision, not a final plan. Much careful thought must
be given to the definition of a comprehensive landscaping plan and Lummus Park programming
consistent with the character of the neighborhood. Enhancement of ocean views from Ocean Drive
properties and the park is a priority. We note that strong views were expressed by certain Panel
members concerning the importance of preserving substantially all of the existing historic palm
tree canopy in the park.
Given the comprehensive structure and conceptual nature of the Vision Plan, the Panel endorses
the Vision Plan as a collection of recommendations that are worthy of serious consideration. While
the Panel respectfully refrains from an explicit endorsement of all aspects of the Vision Plan, the
Panel does encourage the City Commission to move expeditiously to identify areas that merit
immediate further planning focus. While there remain many issues to be considered, including
critical budgetary ones, the Panel finds immediate and expedited consideration of (i) Ocean Drive
reconfiguration, (ii) Lummus park expansion (iii) side street reimagination and (iv) further study
of governance options, to be particularly compelling.
• The Panel was clear in its view that the historic façade architecture and related interior
public spaces on Ocean Drive and in much of the ADCD is sacrosanct. It was historically
protected by a determined group of citizens and has critically shaped our community,
lifestyle and brand and it is essential that we embrace its continuing iconic role in defining
our future.
• The Panel noted the unique and profoundly important environmental issues that the City
confronts. Sensitivity to environmental resiliency must be kept in mind in all we choose
to do.
• While the Panel did not have complete unanimity regarding the re-introduction of vehicles,
the Panel articulated a general preference for prioritizing the pedestrian experience of
Ocean Drive. The Panel appreciates the continued pursuit of a pedestrian and bicycle rich
emphasis for the entire ADCD reflected in the final Zyscovich Plan.
• Although this preliminary concept requires much further analysis and consideration for
budgetary funding, the Panel is very enthusiastic about the idea of enlarging the public park
and enhancing the public's use of the space. The Panel encourages the City Commission
Page 6 of8
to consider im m ediately authorizing th e developm ent of an RFQ fo r Lum m us Park
expansion design.
• M uch carefu l thought m ust be given to the definition of a com prehensive landscaping plan
and Lumm us Park pro gra m m ing consistent w ith the chara cter of the neighborhood.
Enh ancem ent of ocean view s fr om Ocean D rive pro perties and the park is a priority . The
preserv ation of key sightlines, looking both east and w est in th e A D CD w ere im portant.
• W e note that stro ng view s w ere expressed by certain Panel m em bers concern ing the
im portance of preserv ing substantially all the existing historic palm tree canopy in th e park.
Sim ilarly, certain panel m em bers expressed the need fo r creating m ore significant shade
opportu nities in the park than curr ently exist.
• The Panel highlights the critically im portant ro le of placem aking and cultu ra l activations
in Lumm us Park and th ro ughout the A D CD . C onsequently, anticipating such cultu ra l
activations in th e next phase detailed plann ing pro cess is essential.
• The Panel believes that fu rther exam ination of th e Zyscovich recom m endation to consider
m aking the streets that term inate on Ocean Drive one-w ay east or w est is w orthy of
im m ediate additional stu dy. Optim ization of dro p-off, deliveries, and parking rem ains a
critically high priority . The Panel advocated fo r greater considera tion fo r the shared
dynam ic am ong bicycl es and vehicl es w ith pedestrians in the side streets.
• To achieve our placem aking objectives in the A D C D , the Panel encoura ges the City
Com m ission to explore best pra ctices concern ing govern ance. The Panel attached value to
the input of Zyscovich team m em ber and placem aking expert Je ro m e Barth in this pro cess.
W e encoura ge the C ity C om m ission to explore C onserv ancy m odels fo r the m anagem ent
of Lum m us Park, Ocean Drive, and the greater A D CD .
• The Panel discussed the offi ce m arket as it relates to th e District, how to encoura ge certain
uses and business opera tions, and how an expansion of the Lumm us Park fo otp rint could
benefit the econom ic vitality of Ocean Drive. Sim ilarly, econom ic and business
sustainability m ust be central to all w e undertake in the A D C D .
• The Panel endorses the explora tion of a congestion tra ffi c pricing pro gra m fo r the A D CD .
Wh atever balance the C ity C om m ission ultim ately strikes concern ing vehicular vs
pedestri an activity, using m odem techn ology tools to effectively m anage A D CD vehicular
traffi c is an essential long-term priority .
• The Panel continues to believe there are m any other opportunities fo r "Q uick W ins" in the
A D CD . It is essential that w e keep after such opportu nities to beautify and im pro ve
conditions, m any seem ing superficial or cosm etic but critically im portant, in the A D CD
every day. W e don't have "bro ken w indow s", but the sam e m otivation applies. C lean and
safe rem ain a continuing priority , short and long term . Sim ilar attention to every design
detail is critical as the C ity Com m ission considers pur suing elem ents of the Zyscovich
V ision Plan.
Page 7 of8
A ckn o w led gm en ts
T h e P anel co m m ends th e C ity C o m m issio n 's en g ag em en t o f a m u ltid iscip lin ary pro fe ssio n al
co n su ltan t g ro u p led b y B ern ard Z y sco v ich an d Z y sco v ich A rch itects to p ro v id e co m p reh en siv e
plann ing recomm end atio n s fo r th e Ar t D eco C u ltu ra l D istri ct. T h e A D C D D istrict is th e cen ter o f
th e city 's tourism an d cu ltu re u rb an d istrict, blen d in g resid en tia l, co m m ercia l, an d recreatio n a l
u ses an d activities. Z y sco v ich assem b led a co n su mm ate team o f techn ical ex p ert s to an aly ze th e
D istrict's ch all en ges an d op p o rtu n ities an d p ro p o se inn o v ativ e so lu tio n s fo r im p ro v in g m o b ility ,
aesth etics, econ o m ic v itality , an d th e p u b lic realm .
T h e P an el g ra tefu ll y ack n o w led g es th e su p p o rt o f th e C ity M an ag er's team d ur in g th is pro cess,
w ith a part icu lar salu te to th e p ro fe ssio n alism o f th e E co n o m ic D ev elo p m en t D ep art m en t.
T h e P an el tra n sm its this rep o rt to th e M ay o r an d C ity C o mm issio n w ith th e reco m m en d atio n th at
k ey elem en ts o f th e Z y sco v ich P lan ad v an ce to th e n ex t step o f p lann in g , d esig n , an d
im p lem entation .
A p p ro v ed an d su b m itt ed F eb ru ary 18 , 2 0 2 2
Page 8 of8
E X H IB IT B
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Since its very inception, Miami Beach has evolved, changed, adapted, and reimagined itself numerous times.
These past years have been no exception. The pandemic has shown us once again that as a community we
are resilient and able to adapt but what does the future hold? This document is intended to envision what
that future might be like if we would look at all the important influences comprehensively. The ideas presented
in this vision plan represent the integrated thinking of multiple disciplines and experts all pulling in the
direction of protecting, leveraging and reimagining the assets of the world-renowned Art Deco Cultural District.
It is a vision plan not a design document and needs to be considered within the framework of high-level
thinking intended to be evaluated and implemented as a blueprint for moving forward. Visualizations and
illustrations are intended to illustrate the concept and not necessarily to indicate a preferred design solution.
Although it articulates ideas by subject it is vital to appreciate that these parts are all interdependent and
together create the complete vision. For the sake of digesting the information we have also included a matrix
of "action items".
The Art Deco Historic District is the iconic image of Miami Beach in the eyes of the world, although it seems
we exist in a paradoxical time. While to some it may appear as though things are not going well, with unwanted
behaviour and logistical problems, the opposite is also true; Miami Beach is internationally known and has
never been more highly valued. High end brands are coming into the city, recent redevelopment of new hotels
have been successful, and property values have never been higher. The City of Miami Beach ("City") needs to
leverage the ongoing success of the area to envision a district that can effectively accommodate the interests
of the hotels, hospitality industry, visitors, and residents, and further elevate Miami Beach's status as a global
destination.
THE VISION PLAN
As a result of the visioning process, a plan has been developed which encourages the transformation of the
Art Deco Cultural District (ADCD), emphasizing the importance of walkable development throughout the
District. This document contains a compilation of maps, diagrams, images, and text describing
recommendations on a broad range of topics including potential district management approach, urban design
character, Lummus Park expansion, transportation concepts, and potential changes in the land use, zoning
and incentives for the Vision Area and emphasizes the need for such things as well-designed buildings and
streetscapes, open space, limited vehicle access zones with slower traffic, and new bicycle routes.
The study area includes the city blocks and corridors between 5th Street to the South, 17th Street to the North,
Lummus Park to the East, and Washington Avenue to the West.
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T h e Art Deco Cultural District Vision Plan is based on 6 principles:
1. Protect the character and history
2. Rebalance hotels, hospitality industry and residential activities
3. Expand the landscape and create a great park and public spaces
4. Create a comprehensive transit and mobility plan
5. Enhance the character of the street scenes during times of day/night
6. Manage density and be welcoming of all people
KEY CONCEPTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS IN THE VISION PLAN
1. EXPAND THE LANDSCAPE AND CREATE A GREAT PARK, PUBLIC SPACES AND CULTURAL OFFERINGS
The project intends to reimagine the entire space from the front porch of the Ocean Drive buildings to the
existing dunes as the park. Approximately 15 acres of hard pack between the serpentine wall and the dune
should be incorporated into the overall park design. By doubling the size of the park and providing mobility
options within the space we can provide for all modes of movement that will satisfy all of the functional aspects
of access. The new approach to the park will bring nature closer into the City, integrating the beach and dune
into the park as a resilient landscape space. Under the premise of connectivity, the park will increase its
transparency, will allow users to see and be seen, as part of the historic character of Ocean Drive. Access to
the park will be facilitated and more program opportunities will activate areas otherwise unused.
There is an opportunity to take advantage of Lummus Park, which is an exceptional space but is currently
underutilized, and by doubling its size, facilitate many programming opportunities such as recreation, arts and
culture as well as support space for City functions and events.
The side streets if likewise re-imagined, would offer additional planting space providing shade, visual interest,
and additional drainage infiltration areas for stormwater. Landscape corridors could bring pollinators and
other species back to the City, and potentially tie everything together and connect park and City as part of a
larger ecosystem. The overarching objective is to re-imagine Lummus park and bring the landscape all the
way west throughout the District.
2. ESTABLISH A CONSERVANCY TO MANAGE LUMMUS PARK AND POTENTIALLY THE OVERALL DISTRICT
A Conservancy, an independent 5O1c3 organization, could be set up to manage the park on behalf of the City.
A diverse board bridging private, public, and civic sectors will ensure the Conservancy's mission best serves
the public's interest. A specific management agreement with the City will establish its scope of action. It will
fundraise from several sources and increase the resources available to the park. Its professional staff,
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dedicated to Lum m us Park, w ill off er a w orld-class park experience to visitors. O ver tim e, this organizatio n
could increase its responsibilities in the overall neighbourhood, m anaging deliveries, w aste, security, and
events.
3. CR EATE A BA LA N C ED TRA N S IT AND M O B ILI TY PLA N
It is intended to prepare for the future m obility needs of the D istrict by taking advantage of pro posed hig h-
capacity transit connections to the m ainland, m anaging parking availability thro ugh parking and curbside
m anagem ent strategies, and re-purposing roadw ay space to pro vide safe and com fo rt able facilities to prio rity
users, including people w alking and biking in the D istrict.
The pro posed m ultim odal corridor planning study, led by the City, w ould satisfy FO O T and M iam i-D ade County
requirem ents w hile identify ing the fe asibility, project developm ent and en gin eer ing (PD &E ), and preferred
alternative concept designs associated with the transit and mobility plan recommendations.
Restricted Vehicle Access
The purpose is to create a pedestrian/bicycle priority area by deprioritizing automobiles in the District. The
restricted vehicular zone East of Washington Avenue is proposed in one of two (2) ways: congestion charging
and/or restricted access.
Ocean Drive - Park + Pedestrian Street
The intention is for Ocean Drive to be a pedestrian priority street with extremely wide sidewalks next to the
buildings and to feel as if it is part of the park. The street should be designed as an infrequent vehicle
movement; low-capacity road and not intended for through trips. With drop-off zones in each block that would
allow for passengers to be picked up/drop-off closer to the buildings.
Collins Avenue - Shared Transit Street
Collins Avenue is intended as the shared local transit street with a circulator that would allow local north-south
movement within the District. This street is proposed to have the same number of existing through lanes but
envisioned as a curbless (woonerf) road that provides local transit access, with vehicles driving next to people
biking and/or walking.
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Washington Avenue -- District Access Transit Street
The proposal intends to have dedicated bus lanes in the middle of the street with either bus stations, median/
landscaping or left turn lanes, that can be used as needed strategically along the corridor. Outside of those,
there would be one through lane and protected raised cycle track on both sides of the street in separate
directions as well as curbside usage on the East side of the street, which includes on-street parking, loading
zone, ride-share spaces, and pickup/drop-off zones.
5 th S tree t + Li nco ln R oa d - Tra n sit P laza/ Tran sfer S ta tio n
The basis for this proposal is to bring the high-capacity transit connection (The Beach Corridor) to the
intersection of 5th Street and Washington Avenue, so that it is near the beach access and activity areas of the
District. It would also be the area where we start to implement the restricted vehicles access. During the
interim condition, even without the transit in place, this zone can still become a limited vehicular access zone.
The Lincoln Road Transit Mall and Transfer Station is proposed to have transit-only lanes (transit mall) and the
transfer station in the center of the street with through lanes on each side.
East/ We st C o n n e c tion - One Way S treets
It is proposed to make the East-West streets as one-way pairs versus two-way traffic. One way street provide
additional room for expanding one side of the sidewalk and separated bike lanes, improving the landscape,
prioritizing walking and biking facilities, and providing for loading zones and commercial vehicle circulation,
and pick-up/drop-off/valet zones between Washington Avenue and Ocean Drive.
4. BALANCE INTEREST OF PROPERTY & BUSINESS OWNERS, RESIDENTS AND VISITORS & GENERATE
INCENTIVES AND RESTRICTIONS TO GUIDE AND IMPLEMENT DESIRED POLICIES
The Zoning Incentives Recommendations for Collins Avenue and Ocean Drive in the MXE District will serve to
assist the City in implementing the goals and objectives of the ADCD Vision Plan. The intent of the proposed
changes to the existing MXE zoning designation is to balance the needs and maintain the character of Ocean
Drive and Collins Avenue but allow limited zoning incentives that would encourage people to quickly reinvest
in the properties while protecting the historic character of the District.
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