North Beach Pursues Master Plan for 10-Block Revitalization

By: Ismael Rodriguez

There’s a new ballot that, if approved, will allow North Beach to pursue a master plan for revitalizing a 10-block district along 71st Street between Collins Avenue and Indian Creek Drive.

The ordinance, item #82 on the ballot, is an initiative that increases floor-area-ratio in the town center zoning districts to 3.5, which should prompt growth and density in the neighborhood, making room for new public spaces, housing, dining and retail. Part of the ordinance also includes the increase of mid-rise buildings to 125 feet tall, doubling the total building density.

The blueprint, which has been guided by over a thousand North Beach residents during the planning process, was designed by urban planning and design firm Dover, Kohl, & Partners.

Most community leaders are also actively supporting the measure. These leaders include Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine, Miami Beach Commissioner Ricky Arriola, former Miami Beach Commissioner Nancy Liebman, and Miami Design Preservation League Executive Director Daniel Ciraldo.

Early voting begins on Nov. 2 and Election Day is Nov. 7.