Deauville Beach Resort Redevelopment Moves Closer to Approval

The Deauville Beach Resort site in Miami Beach is one step closer to redevelopment. On Tuesday, the Miami Beach Planning Board unanimously recommended that the City Commission approve land use changes for the 3.8-acre oceanfront property at 6701 Collins Avenue. If approved, the changes will allow for a high-end mixed-use project in place of the historic resort.

Zoning Updates for the Miami Beach Development

The site currently has a floor area ratio (FAR) of 3.0 to 3.15. Developers David Martin’s Terra and the Meruelo family seek to increase this to 5.5 FAR, allowing for a 916,000-square-foot project. Their proposal includes:

• Two luxury condominium towers
• A partially reconstructed version of the historic resort
• A 100-unit branded condominium
• A 150-room luxury hotel

Community Response and Developer Adjustments

During the planning board meeting, some residents and developers raised concerns about setbacks and view obstructions. However, overall feedback was positive.

Board member Elizabeth Latone praised the developers for incorporating community feedback, including increasing setbacks by 50 feet to allow more space around the new buildings.

Resident Larry Shafer suggested setting a completion deadline, citing stalled developments like Ocean Terrace as a cautionary example.

In response, attorney Michael Larkin, representing the developers, proposed adding a clause requiring the team to secure a building permit within five years.

The Legacy and Future of the Site

Originally built in 1957 by architect Melvin Grossman, the site suffered extensive fire and hurricane damage, forcing its closure in 2017. By 2022, officials deemed it unsafe, leading to its demolition.

The Meruelo family, who owned the property, faced allegations of neglecting the site. In April 2023, David Martin joined the project, acquiring a 25% stake for $12.5 million to help bring new life to the location.

Future Development Plans and Market Impact

Before Martin’s involvement, billionaire developer Steve Ross attempted to buy the site for $500 million, planning a Frank Gehry-designed luxury project. However, his proposal relied on a voter-approved zoning increase, which failed in 2022.

Unlike Ross’s plan, the current proposal does not require a public referendum, making it closer to final approval. If approved, construction could begin in 2026.

For more details, visit the Miami Beach City Commission or explore Miami’s luxury real estate market.