Hyatt and Gencom Unveil Plans for 87-Story Tower Replacing Knight Center

Hyatt Hotels Corp. and Miami-based Gencom have unveiled the design for their ambitious three-tower project along the Miami River, slated to replace the James L. Knight Center.

Dubbed Miami Riverbridge, the project will be reviewed by the Miami River Commission on March 4th. Following city voters’ approval of a lease amendment and development deal for the 4-acre site at 400 S. Second Ave in November 2022, Gencom partnered with the Chicago-based Hyatt Hotels Corp. to revamp the existing 615-room hotel and the 4,500-seat Knight Center, initially developed in 1982.

The updated design presented to the Miami River Commission showcases a nearly 3.8 million square feet project. The tallest tower, rising 87 stories or 1,044 feet, is poised to become one of Florida’s tallest buildings. A sky bridge connecting the hotel tower with one of the residential towers on the 61st floor adds a distinctive architectural touch.

Miami Riverbridge will encompass 1,342 multifamily units, 264 apartment/hotel units, 615 Hyatt Regency hotel rooms, 100,000 square feet of commercial space, including restaurants, a food market, retail outlets, and 1,180 parking spaces.

A pool/garden deck will link the three towers at the eighth level. The initial phase will see the construction of the hotel and residential towers, along with the sky bridge connection, followed by the development of the additional residential building in the second phase. Furthermore, plans include a pedestrian bridge over Southwest Fourth Street and a pedestrian riverwalk along the Miami River, aligning with the Miami River Commission’s efforts to enhance the riverfront.

While officials from Hyatt and Gencom were unavailable for comment, local attorney Iris Escarra, representing the developers, emphasized the project’s significance in revitalizing downtown Miami. Escarra noted, “The project will be a signature development introducing new uses that contribute to and support the growth of downtown Miami,” highlighting its potential to create employment opportunities and transform the area into a vibrant waterfront destination.