Miami River Commission’s
Urban Infill & Greenways Subcommittee’s Combined Minutes

I. Review Proposed “Miami Mega Yacht Marina” Located at 1583 NW 24 Ave - Homero Meruelo, Owner of Miami Mega Yacht Club site for over a decade, Tony Rodriguez-Tellaheche Architect, HCD Developers, and Susan Engle Enviro Care, presented the plans for the “Miami Mega Yacht Club”. The presented project features 16 covered mega-yacht slips, clubhouse, with one Captain’s Quarters / Warehouse area per slip. The site is an existing marine related industrial facility, zoned D3, and the current DERM Marine Operating Permit includes 45 boat slips. In addition, separated by curtains, work on vessels will be allowed following DERM’s required Best Management Practices, including a little sanding, painting, etc. The project will require Board of County Commission approval for the private property owner to conduct needed maintenance dredging of the existing water slips to the 15 foot depth of the adjacent designated federal navigable channel. Ms. Engle, former President of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, noted the incredibly positive economic impacts and jobs generated by mega-yachts docking in Miami for several weeks, while filling provisions before long trips. Mr. Meruelo notes these Mega Yachts will often be towed to and from the facility, and do not have frequent short trips such as the smaller boats docked there now. Mr. Meruelo noted the Miami-Mega Yacht Club will be unique in the world, featuring adjacent quarters, clubhouse, etc.

Attendees noted MRC Greenways subcommittee Chairman Dr. Ernie Martin had RSVP’d to the originally scheduled and publicly noticed 2/12/14 MRC subcommittee date, which the developer team requested to cancel due to the architect being in the hospital. The rescheduled meeting time was the only opportunity for the development team and MRC Urban Infill subcommittee Chairman Murley, that kept the proposed project eligible per standard operating procedures to be on the MRC’s next monthly public meeting agenda, Monday, March 3, 2014, 1407 NW 7 ST.

MRC Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman Jim Murley asked MRC Managing Director Brett Bibeau for his review of the proposal in terms of the adopted Miami River Greenway Action Plan. MRC Director Bibeau stated City of Miami Zoning Code (Miami 21) Section 3.11, a. Waterfront Setbacks 1.” states in part, “These requirements shall not apply to Marine Related Industrial Establishments along the Miami River.” and “b. Waterfront walkways Design Standards” states in part, “Waterfront walkways are not required within Transect Zones…D3 unless the site is a new Commercial retail, Office or restaurant use.” Therefore the Miami River Greenway Action Plan calls for an on-road Miami River Greenway on City of Miami owned streets adjacent to this subject site, featuring the 8-foot wide mesa-beige sidewalk, landscaping, decorative lighting, way-finding signage, historic markers, informational kiosks, benches, decorative garbage cans, etc. matching the several miles of on-road Miami River Greenway constructed on City owned streets thus far. MRC Managing Director therefore recommended the MRC find the “Miami River Yacht Basin” development proposal consistent with the Miami River Greenway Action Plan, as the City’s zoning code Section 3.11 does not require a public riverwalk or waterfront building setback on this site, which is a marine industrial marine facility operating in a site zoned D3.

MRC Managing Director Brett Bibeau provided a copy of Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan:

page 36, “Another asset is the former Florida Yacht Basin (subject site) site 30, a marine industrial site with deep-water slips and the potential to compliment the planned Watson Island Mega-Yacht marina as a mega yacht servicing facility. This site is one of only a few with the physical infrastructure and geographic proximity to Watson Island to serve this purpose. This is consistent with the City of Miami Comprehensive Plan which encourages the establishment and maintenance of water dependent and water relates uses along the banks of the Miami River.” In addition

page 37, “Florida Yacht Basin Redevelopment Case Study, “The concept for this (subject) site is a Mega-Yacht repair and mooring facility along the waterfront and residential community along the southwest side of the site.”.

page 43, “”Upper River Urban Infill Sites”, the subject site is “#30 Florida Yacht Basin”

MRC Urban Infill Chairman Jim Murley stated the project was exemplary and the best part of making the MRC’s adopted strategic plans, is watching them become implemented by positive projects. The Miami River Commission’s (MRC) Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman, Jim Murley recommended the MRC find the “Miami Mega-Yacht Basin” proposal consistent with the adopted Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan, and therefore support it receiving all needed permits and approvals as required by various codes in order to come to fruition.

The item is scheduled to be presented at the full body of the MRC at its next public meeting March 3, noon, 1407 NW 7 ST, at which time the developer is confirmed to make a presentation to the entire MRC. At that time, the recommendations for approval from both MRC Urban Infill Subcommittee Chairman Murley and MRC Greenways Subcommittee Chairman Dr. Martin will also be presented and any comment from the general public will also be heard prior to a formal and final vote of the MRC. MRC Managing Director Bibeau stated he provided the developer team the MRC’s Project Presentation Checklist and Standard Operating Procedures.

II. New Business
MRC Managing Director Bibeau stated Dr Ernie Martin indicated during the next MRC public meeting under his Greenways Subcommittee Chairman Report or New Business, Dr. Martin intends to ask the MRC to support the City of Miami Historic and Environmental Preservation (HEP) Board’s recent denial of a “Certificate of Appropriateness” for MDM Development’s proposed “Met Square” development across the street from the Miami River, located at 300 SE 3 ST, where several more pre-historic 2,000 year old “Miami Circle” like patterns were discovered during the required dig within the City of Miami’s designated archeological zone along the Miami River. The proposed developers have filed their appeal of the HEP Board’s denial, which will be considered by the City Commission, therefore Dr Martin intends to ask the MRC to recommend denial of the appeal. (back-up materials available at miamigov.com, “Legislative Hub” / Legistar, under Feb. 14., 2014).

The meeting adjourned.

Miami River Commission’s
Urban Infill & Greenways Subcommittee’s Combined Minutes

I. Review Appeal of City of Miami Historic and Environmental Preservation Board’s Denial of the “Action Plan, Met Square” - MRC Managing Director Brett Bibeau distributed the following materials used for this item during the City of Miami Historic Environmental Preservation Board’s February 14, 2014 public hearing (8 hours) on this item:

• “Action Plan, Met Miami, February 6, 2014”
• “Met Square” Plans
• “Comparable Archaeological Sites and Development Plans”
  

Ms Becky Matkov, Dade Heritage Trust (DHT), stated she supports the City of Miami’s Historic and Environmental Preservation Board’s (HEPB) denial of the current proposed “Action Plan, Met Square” because DHT wants the developer to preserve for the public more than the currently proposed 1 circle and remains of Flagler’s Royal Palm Hotel on the site, while allowing a slightly redesigned development on the site as well.

Mr. Tony Recio, Weiss, Serota, Helfman on behalf of MDM Retail / Met Square, stated he didn’t think the MRC had jurisdiction on the item as it is not a riverfront parcel. Mr. Recio stated the “Action Plan, Met Square” includes a 12,000 square foot public plaza with 1 “circle” and remains of Flagler’s Royal Palm Hotel. Mr. Recio stated the development includes retail, restaurant, Movie Theater, and preserves history. Mr. Recio stated preserving all the “circles” the cost for steel alone would be $50 million, therefore the owner asked the City and County for financial assistance and they refused. Mr. Recio concluded the developers want a fair compromise. Their 1st attempt was preserving one “circle” and Royal Palm Hotel remains, and now they will try to preserve even more, while developing the site as well

MRC Greenways Chairman Ernie Martin noted he requested this item be on today’s MRC subcommittee agenda. Dr. Martin stated DHT is the most appropriate group to be directly involved in this issue, and he was glad they attended this MRC subcommittee public meeting. Dr. Martin stated this item was heading towards mediation between the 2 sides, which the City Commission is expected to authorize on March 27, which is before the MRC’s next public meeting. Ms. Matkov and Mr. Recio stated they will both be participating in the upcoming mediation. Dr. Martin stated he was surprised the HEPB is unable to consider the Preliminary Historic Designation Report until after the City Commission authorizes the mediation on March 27. Dr. Martin stated he supported the HEPB denial of the “Action Plan, Met Square” and supports DHT’s advisory recommendation to preserve the ancient site’s artifacts and circles, while still allowing a slightly redesigned development on the site. Mr. Murley stated he personally hoped a better balance would be achieved between preserving the ancient site with public access, while allowing a development on the same site.

II. Presentation of Temporary Closure of Riverfront’s Curtis Park Due to Contamination, and Plans to Reopen
Mr. Wilbur Mayorga and Ms Lornce Buckner, Miami-Dade County DERM, and Mr. Harry James, City of Miami, stated the environmental assessment is ongoing and will be completed within 2 weeks. Then a “Corrective Action Plan” (CAP) will be created, followed by its implementation. Mr. James stated it may be possible to partially reopen portions of Curtis Park. Mr. James stated currently the entire riverfront portion of Curtis Park, including a public Riverwalk and public boat ramp, remain open and operational. Mr. Jeovanny Rodriguez, City of Miami Assistant Capital Improvement Project (CIP) Director, stated the City of Miami is finishing the process obtain a DERM permit to improve the Curtis Park public boat ramp, for which FIND provided a matching grant, and the project will be put out to bid in 30 days).

III. Review Definition of “Mean High Water Line” Location When Measuring Waterfront Building Setback in City of Miami Zoning Code Section 3.11 a. 1.

MRC Director Bibeau provided the following email exchange:

“From: Hefty, Lee (RER) [mailto:HeftyL@miamidade.gov]
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2014 10:43 AM
To: 'Brett Bibeau'; Jim Murley
Subject: RE: Mean High Water Line Definition

Brett,
Generally correct, but with one clarification. Mean High Water is not the average between high and low tide, but rather is the average of the high water heights.

Regards,

Lee N. Hefty Director of Environmental Resources Management (DERM),
Miami-Dade Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources
701 NW 1st Court Suite 400 Miami, FL 33136 Tel 305-372-6754 Fax 305-372-6759

From: Brett Bibeau [mailto:miamiriver1@bellsouth.net]
Sent: Saturday, March 08, 2014 9:22 AM
To: Hefty, Lee (RER); Brett Bibeau; Jim Murley
Subject: Mean High Water Line Definition

Dear Director Hefty:
As you recall, during the last development cycle a couple times there was some confusion regarding where to measure the waterfront building setback from. City of Miami Zoning code 3.11 a. 1. “Waterfront setbacks shall be a minimum of fifty (50) measured from the mean high water line provided along any waterfront”. Please be so kind to confirm or clarify my understanding that if the “waterfront” is a seawall, the “mean high water line” would be the point where the water touches the face of the seawall, and when there is an unconsolidated shoreline or riprap, the “mean high water line” is the average (between high and low tides) point where the water touches the land.

I thought I recalled emails a few years ago confirming this, but when I searched my computer they didn’t come up. With the current development cycle well underway, we are trying to generally clarify this definition during the public meeting this Wednesday (Mr. Mayorga also on the agenda for Curtis Park, and looking forward to hearing from him).
Thanks for your time and assistance. Have a great weekend

Sincerely,
Brett Bibeau
Managing Director,
Miami River Commission”

IV. Review of Successional Zoning Chart in City of Miami Zoning Code Section 7.1.2.8
Attendees reviewed the Successional Zoning Chart in City of Miami Zoning Code Section 7.1.2.8 which features text and a chart, describing what an applicant may apply for in terms of potential zoning amendments. MRC Managing Director Bibeau stated the text states in part, “The City’s growth and evolution over time will inevitably require changes to the boundaries of certain Transect Zones. These changes shall occur successional, in which the zoning change may be made only to a lesser Transect Zone; within the same Transect Zone to a greater or lesser intensity; or to the next higher Transect Zone” which appears inconsistent with the chart which does not allow a D3 (most restrictive of the Marine Industrial categories) to even apply for a zoning amendment to become D2 or D1 (less restrictive Marine Industrial categories) which would keep them within the “Port of Miami River” sub-element of the Comp. Plan, rather forces them to only be allowed to apply for a zoning amendment from D3 to “T6-8L, T6-8 O, CI” which is a significantly increased density and use which would require a land use amendment as well to leave the “Port of Miami River” sub-element of the Comp Plan. Similarly currently this chart in zoning code section 7.1.2.8 does not allow a zoning amendment application to be submitted and considered (no guarantee for approval) for D1 to become D3, nor D2 to become D3, nor D3 to become D2 or D1, all of which would keep the existing “Port of Miami River” land use in the Comp. Plan. MRC Urban Infill Chairman asked MRC Director Bibeau to review this with City of Miami Planning Director Francisco Garcia.

V) City of Miami Public Riverwalk Construction Updates
I. City of Miami Public Riverwalk Construction Updates –

1) B-30651
Geographic Area: South River Drive / NW 7 ST from 10-12 Ave
Status: Recently completed

2) B-40686
Geographic Area: South River Drive from NW 1 ST to NW 5 ST Bridge
Status: Nearing completion – needs benches, way-finding signs, informational kiosks, removal of old utility poles, replace destroyed one new decorative pole, palm tree and Speed Limit sign, which were hit by a vehicle after installation, etc. City taking construction Bond to finish.

3) B-30336
Geographic Area: A) South River Drive from NW 5 ST Bridge to NW 10 Ave
Status: Recently completed (FPL needs to remove old utility poles)

4) B-30130
Geographic Area: South Shore Metro-Rail to South Miami Ave Bridge
Status: Nearing completion – needs benches aligned and secured, sidewalk colored mesa beige, check specs on tree size, removal of old utility poles, etc.

5) B-40643A
Geographic Area: North River Drive from NW 7 Ave to NW 12 Ave
Status: – Nearing completion – needs install informational kiosks, remove old wood light poles by FPL, etc. City taking construction Bond to finish.

6) B-30631
Geographic Area: South Shore from Miami Circle to South Miami Ave
Status = MRC assisted City obtain County and private sector easements before FDOT’s awarded grant deadline. FDOT currently reviewing city’s submitted LAP documentation.

7) B-30643
Geographic Area: A. Lummus Landing (riverfront portion of Lummus Park)
B. North River Drive small gap between the existing Greenway sections at the 5th Street Bridge and 6th Avenue
Design Status: 100% complete
Needed Action Items: City needs to publicly advertise completed plans for construction bids

8) Job Order Contract (JOC) with no Federal funds
Geographic Area: NW North River Drive, from NW 2 ST to NW 3 ST
Design Status: 90% complete
Needed Action Items:

1) First Complete B-30643 (Lummus Landing, #7)
2) FPL
3) Advertise for Construction Bids
4) City Commission
5) Execute Construction Contracts
6) Issue NTP
7) Construction

9) Health District Riverwalk / 82-70587 ($961,000 in City funds, FY ’12 – ‘13 $200,000 for design, followed by FY ’13 – ’14 $761,000 for construction)
Geographic Area: North shore, NW 12 Ave to Mahi Shrine
Design Status: City awaiting receipt of pledged MDC GOB funds
Needed Action Items:

1) Contract engineer – Design estimated March – July 1 , 2013
2) Apply for permits
3) execute paperwork with property owners Miami-Dade County and MDX

10) Improve Curtis Park Boat Ramp (no federal funding)
Design Status: 100% complete
Needed Action Items:
1) Publicly advertise completed plans for construction bids
2) Award Contract
3) Issue NTP / Construct planned improvements

II. Miami-Dade County Riverwalk Construction Updates – Miami-Dade County recently provided the MRC their updated punch list to complete MDC sites 1, 2, 3 and 6.
The MRC assisted MDC in obtaining the MDC’s required paperwork from Neo Vertika and FPL. Therefore MDC will publicly advertise their completed and permitted construction plans for sites 4 & 5 (Metro-Rail north and south shores) in April, with construction bids due in May
The Greenway’s subcommittee thanked Miami-Dade County.

III. Volunteer Public Miami River Greenway Beautification Events
Since the last MRC Greenways subcommittee public meeting, volunteer Miami River Greenway beautification projects, coordinated and funded by the MRC, were held:

• January 25, 2014 from 9-11 AM, the MRC hosted and funded supplies for estimated 10 volunteers from UM, which removed garbage along the shoreline in Sewell Park.
• February 8, 2014, the MRC hosted and funded plants and supplies for Hands on Miami volunteers to add plants in the community vegetable and fruit garden, and pick up garbage along the adjacent public Miami River Greenway.
• March 1, 2014, the MRC hosted and funded plants and supplies for Hands on Miami volunteers to add plants in the community vegetable and fruit garden, and pick up garbage along the adjacent public Miami River Greenway.
  

Upcoming volunteer Miami River Greenway beautification events include:

• March 22, 2014, the MRC will host and fund plants and supplies for Miami-Dade College volunteers from Lummus Park to NW5 ST Bridge, whom will plant and remove litter along the Miami River Greenway
• April 26, 2014, the MRC will host and fund plants and supplies for Hands on Miami volunteers to add plants in the community vegetable and fruit garden, and pick up garbage along the adjacent public Miami River Greenway.
• May 24, 2014, the MRC will host and fund plants and supplies for Hands on Miami volunteers to add plants in the community vegetable and fruit garden, and pick up garbage along the adjacent public Miami River Greenway.
  

IV. New Business – The free 18th Annual Miami Riverday will be April 5, 2014, 1-6 PM, Lummus Park, 250 NW North River Drive, featuring live music, Miami River boat rides, environmental education, children activities, historic re-enactors, paddleboard and kayak races, food, drinks, etc.

The meeting adjourned.

Miami River Commission’s
Urban Infill & Greenways Subcommittee’s Combined Minutes

I. Review Proposed “Miami Riverwalk” Mixed-Use Development (Special Area Plan) located on three blocks bordered on the north by the Miami River, on the south by SW 7 ST, on the west by SW 3 Ave, and on the east by SW 2 Ave
Ms. Melissa Tapanes, Berkow Radell Fernandez, Mr. Kobi Karp, Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design, Mr. George Puig, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Ms. Christy Brush, Coastal Systems International, and Mr. Ari Pearl, Chetrit Group Florida Properties, presented “Miami Riverwalk”, including a PowerPoint. The proposed project is located on three blocks bordered on the north by the Miami River, on the south by SW 7 ST, on the west by SW 3 Ave, and on the east by SW 2 Ave. The development team stated the proposal features a 50-foot waterfront building setback (25 of the feet have a 15’ – 18’ foot tall awning over it, and the 25 feet closest to the River are open to the sky, and a public riverwalk. MRC Director Bibeau distributed copies of the City of Miami Zoning Code requirements regarding the public riverwalk contained in Section 3.11 and Appendix B, in addition to the City Charter section (mm)(ii). The developer team stated their proposed public riverwalk and waterfront building setbacks and side yards are consistent with these sections of the City of Miami Zoning Code and City Charter, and they were not seeking and reductions, waivers, exceptions, variances, etc. The public riverwalk will connect at grade with existing public riverwalks to the east at SW 2 Ave Bridge, Latitude on the River, Neo Vertika, etc., and to the west, into Jose Marti Park, etc. In addition to the public riverwalk, the riverfront block (between SW 3 and SW 2 Ave from River to SW 5 ST) contains a marina, 3-story building with restaurant, retail, and office space.

The developer team stated: The 2 upland blocks (between SW 2 Ave and SW 3 Ave from SW 7 ST to SW 5 ST) feature 4 buildings, 60-stories (650 feet tall) each, with 1,449 residential units plus a 300 room hotel (1,749 total units), and 8-5 story parking pedestals completely facaded with habitable liners on the first 3 floors and art screens on the remaining floors. The application includes a request to amend the Land Use (City of Miami’s adopted Neighborhood Comprehensive Plan) on the 2 upland blocks, from the current “Little Havana Target Area” Residential Density Increase Area, which allows an additional 200 units per acre, to become “River Quadrant” Residential Density Increase Area, which allows an additional 500 units per acre (above baseline zoning T6-36). The sites current Land Use and Zoning (without the requested land use amendment) allows 1,100 residential units. If the requested Land Use amendment is approved to allow the increased “River Quadrant” Residential Density Increase Area (500 units per acre), than the site’s maximum units would become 3,000, while a total of 1,749 units are proposed. The Land Use amendment application is tied to the plans.

In addition, the developer team stated the plans include a Zoning Amendment known as a Special Area Plan (SAP). Normally SAP has minimum 9 acres, and in this development plan the private properties (under various sale contracts) consist of 6 acres, therefore the remaining 3 acres to meet the required 9 acre SAP threshold are the south east portion of Jose Marti Park. The City of Miami will be a co-applicant on the SAP application, which is yet to be formally submitted to the City of Miami. The developer team stated they will provide the “working waterfront” notice required in the Comp. Plan.

The developer team stated they will be participating in the “Public Benefit” program under the City’s adopted zoning code, via paying into a City Fund, and constructing various public benefits in the area, in return for additional development density bonuses. MRC Director Bibeau asked what are the proposed public benefits, and the developer team stated they remained under consideration, but may include colored up-lighting of adjacent I-95 and 2 Ave Bridges over the Miami River. MRC Director Bibeau stated if the entire Jose Marti Park was included in the designated SAP boundary, than Public Benefit improvements would be feasible regardless of their specific location within the Park, and not be limited to only the south east 3 acres of the Park as the current boundary depicts. For example, Director Bibeau stated the Parks existing over 25-year old riverwalk could use ADA improvements / ramps on existing shallow steps, new surfaces, improved drainage, NW corner gazebo is fenced off and closed to the public because roof is collapsing, improved decorative lighting, new bathroom appliances (toilets, showers, tile, etc.) within the existing pool building, etc.

MRC Director Bibeau stated the City of Miami entered into a contract with FDOT when the City used $1,000,000 in Federal Transportation Enhancement Program (TEP) Grant funding to construct the existing on-road Miami River Greenway (8 foot wide mesa beige sidewalk, landscaping, benches, way-finding signage, informational kiosk, street, stormwater drainage, decorative trans cans, decorative lights, etc., in a portion of the subject area, along SW 3 Ave from the Miami River to SW 6 ST, and along SW 6 ST from SW 3 Ave to SW 2 Ave. The Grant funding contract requires these improvements to be in place for 30 years. If a developer wants to remove the improvements, another option which may be considered consistent with the grant contract is for the developer to pay for an equal section of the on-road Miami River Greenway to be constructed at another needed location, which is yet to have secured funding. The developer team stated they were aware and intended to leave the existing on-road Miami River Greenway improvements in place, and or improve / restore them after construction as needed. The developer team added they will be making improvements to the other public streets in the area, including SW 5 ST’s riverfront dead-end, and make a new street running north south, in-between 2 Ave and 3 Ave, which will be used for loading, garbage trucks to access dumpsters, etc.

Ms. Christy Brush, Coastal (marine contractor) and Mr. George Puig, Kimley-Horn (landscape architect), stated they were recently contracted and are assessing the condition of the existing seawall which may need replacement, and are working on more detailed Riverwalk cross sections. Ms. Brush stated the existing slip has previous permits issued for filling, and they intend to maintain the “water transit” stop currently on the Miami River at this site (Finnegan’s River).

UIWG Chairman Murley thanked the developer team for their presentation. Chairman Murley stated SW 7 ST from SW 2 Ave to SW 3 Ave often gets backed up with cars taking a left onto SW 3 Ave in order to access the ramp to get on I-95 north bound. The developer team stated they will be conducting a Traffic Study. UIWG Chairman Murley and the developer team agreed that since the recently contracted landscape architect, marine contractor, and Traffic Study just started their work / designs, which are not ready yet for presentation and consideration yet, this project is not quite ready to be presented and considered by the full MRC on June 2.

II) City of Miami Public Riverwalk Construction Updates

1) B-30651
Geographic Area: South River Drive / NW 7 ST from 10-12 Ave
Status: Recently completed

2) B-40686
Geographic Area: South River Drive from NW 1 ST to NW 5 ST Bridge
Status: Nearing completion – needs benches, way-finding signs, informational kiosks, removal of old utility poles, replace destroyed one new decorative pole, palm tree and Speed Limit sign, which were hit by a vehicle after installation, etc. City taking construction Bond to finish.

3) B-30336
Geographic Area: A) South River Drive from NW 5 ST Bridge to NW 10 Ave
Status: Recently completed (FPL needs to remove old utility poles)

4) B-30130
Geographic Area: South Shore Metro-Rail to South Miami Ave Bridge
Status: Nearing completion – needs benches aligned and secured, sidewalk colored mesa beige, check specs on tree size, removal of old utility poles, etc.

5) B-40643A
Geographic Area: North River Drive from NW 7 Ave to NW 12 Ave
Status – Nearing completion – needs install informational kiosks, remove old wood light poles by FPL, etc. City taking construction Bond to finish.

6) B-30631
Geographic Area: South Shore from Miami Circle to South Miami Ave
Status = MRC assisted City obtain County and private sector easements before FDOT’s awarded grant deadline. FDOT currently reviewing city’s submitted LAP documentation.

7) B-30643
Geographic Area:
A. Lummus Landing (riverfront portion of Lummus Park)
B. North River Drive small gap between the existing Greenway sections at the 5th Street Bridge and 6th Avenue
Design Status: 100% complete
Needed Action Items: City needs to publicly advertise completed plans for construction bids

8) Job Order Contract (JOC) with no Federal funds
Geographic Area: NW North River Drive, from NW 2 ST to NW 3 ST
Design Status: 90% complete
Needed Action Items:
1) First Complete B-30643 (Lummus Landing, #7)
2) FPL
3) Advertise for Construction Bids
4) City Commission
5) Execute Construction Contracts
6) Issue NTP
7) Construction

9) Health District Riverwalk / 82-70587 ($961,000 in City funds, FY ’12 – ‘13 $200,000 for design, followed by FY ’13 – ’14 $761,000 for construction)
Geographic Area: North shore, NW 12 Ave to Mahi Shrine
Design Status: City awaiting receipt of pledged MDC GOB funds
Needed Action Items:
1) Contract engineer – Design estimated March – July 1 , 2013
2) Apply for permits
3) execute paperwork with property owners Miami-Dade County and MDX

10) Improve Curtis Park Boat Ramp (no federal funding)
Design Status: 100% complete
Needed Action Items:
1) Publicly advertise completed plans for construction bids
2) Award Contract
3) Issue NTP / Construct planned improvements

III. Miami-Dade County Riverwalk Construction Updates
Miami-Dade County has substantially completed construction of 3 sections of County owned public Riverwalk, and at a 4th County site next to Lummus Park the contractor needs to make the installed riverwalk color a consistent “mesa beige”, per the plans.

The MRC assisted MDC in obtaining the MDC’s required paperwork from Neo Vertika and FPL. Therefore MDC publicly advertised their completed and permitted construction plans for sites 4 & 5 (Metro-Rail north and south shores) in April, with construction bids due in May.
The Greenway’s subcommittee thanked Miami-Dade County.

IV. Volunteer Public Miami River Greenway Beautification Events
Since the last MRC Greenways subcommittee public meeting, volunteer Miami River Greenway beautification projects, coordinated and funded by the MRC, were held:

• March 22, 2014, the MRC hosted and funded plants and supplies for Miami-Dade College volunteers from Lummus Park to NW5 ST Bridge, whom planted and remove litter along the Miami River Greenway
  
• April 26, 2014, the MRC hosted and fund plants and supplies for Hands on Miami volunteers to add plants in the community vegetable and fruit garden, and pick up garbage along the adjacent public Miami River Greenway.
  

Upcoming volunteer Miami River Greenway beautification events include:

• May 24, 2014, the MRC will host and fund plants and supplies for Hands on Miami volunteers to add plants in the community vegetable and fruit garden, and pick up garbage along the adjacent public Miami River Greenway.
  

V. New Business – The meeting adjourned.

Miami River Commission’s
Urban Infill & Greenways Subcommittee’s Combined Minutes

I. Review Proposed “One Brickell” Mixed-Use Development located at 444 Brickell, bordered by the Miami River on the north, Brickell Bridge on the east, SE 5 ST on the south and “Brickell on the River” development on the west
Ms. Iris Escarra, Greenberg Traurig, Mr Alfonso Jurado and Ms Princess Moquette, Arquitectonica, Ms Aista Sobouti and Mr Christopher Johnson, ENEA Garden Design, and Chris Eaves, Witkin Hults Design Group, provided and presented the proposed “One Brickell” (“Miami River Commission submittal set 11/10/14”) Mixed-Use development plans and narrative. Ms. Escarra stated they would provide the narrative, affidavits, and Transportation Analysis via PDF.

The development team distributed and presented Plans for “One Brickell, 444 Brickell Avenue, Miami River Commission Submittal Set November 10, 2014”. The development team stated the plans include the following three buildings developed in the following 2 construction Phases:

Phase I
1. 75-story building parallel “Brickell on the River”, 480 “owned” residential units
2. 55-story building facing SE 5 ST, 500 “rental” residential units
Riverfront Restaurant (1 of 2)
West side of proposed public Riverwalk, connecting at grade to “Brickell on the River’s” existing public riverwalk to the west, plus west side public side yard connector from the public riverwalk’s west side to the public sidewalk (Federal Grant funded planned on-road Miami River Greenway) on SE 5 ST

Phase II
3. 80-story building facing Brickell Ave, 420 residential units plus 249 room Hotel
Riverfront Restaurant (2 of 2)
East side of proposed public Riverwalk, including at grade connection beneath Brickell Bridge to a new riverwalk section which the developer proposes to include beneath the Bridge, then continuing east and connecting at grade to existing public riverwalk at Miami Circle Park, plus east side public side yard connector from the public riverwalk’s east side to the public sidewalk (Federal Grant funded planned on-road Miami River Greenway) on SE 5 ST

Total = 1,400 residential units, plus 249 hotel rooms

The development team stated the proposal seeks to purchase an additional 868,399 square feet of density above 48 stories and beyond the sites current high density zoning (City of Miami’s adopted “Public Benefits” Program has a current rate of $17.82 per square foot, which would equate to $15,474,870). Ms. Escarra stated the structures are all “fully lined” with habitable spaces. Ms Escarra stated the site currently has an active Marine Operating Permit and State Submerged Land Lease for 6 vessels, which they will maintain.

The development team stated the proposal features a 50-foot waterfront building setback and public riverwalk, consistent with the public riverwalk requirements contained in the City of Miami Zoning Code “3.11”, Appendix B and the City Charter section (mm) (ii) regarding the 50 foot waterfront building setback. In addition, the plans feature a proposed public riverwalk connection to be constructed by the developers beneath Brickell Bridge’s south shore, in order for the proposed “1 Brickell” public Riverwalk to continue east at grade and connect with the existing public riverwalk at the Miami Circle Park, as well as connect to the west at grade with existing public riverwalk at “Brickell on the River”. The development team stated they will amend the plans to increase the unobstructed “circulation zone to 16’ wide within the larger 25’ wide public riverwalk, which also features landscaping, benches, decorative lighting, required way-finding signage, etc.

Ms Escarra stated the proposed mixed-use development will use its existing zoning and land use. Ms Escarra noted the project is seeking a reduction in the City Charter required view corridor (side-yards) from required 96’ (25% of waterfront’s 384.5 linear feet) to 73.2’ total, consisting of 30’ on the west and 43.2’ feet on the east (note states “22’-10” Proposed Max. Encroachment into view corridor”). Ms Escarra noted the 22’-10’ encroachment into the sideyard / view corridor setback applies to all floors above the 20’ tall ground level, where the full 96’ view corridor / sideyard setback is provided. In addition, Ms Escarra stated they will be seeking a waiver to reduce the required parking spaces by 30%, because the site is close to mass transit.

Jim Murley stated the MRC has been working in partnership with the City of Miami, Miami Parking Authority, and the State of Florida, seeking approval of the previously designed public riverwalk and public paid parking lot on the unimproved public right of way beneath Brickell Bridge’s south shore. MPA contracted archeologist Bob Carr whom has been seeking approvals from the State for well over a year. Ms. Escarra stated the Related Group also hired Bob Carr for required archeological work on the site. Ms Escarra stated the developer may consider providing the planned 30 public paid (at MPA rates) parking spots within their parking pedestal. Jim Murley respectfully requested the development team provide their draft Development Agreement, with exhibits, such as the Working River Disclosure / Covenant required by the Comprehensive Plan PA-3.1.9, “Policy PA-3.1.9: The City shall require from new residential development and redevelopment located along the Miami River a recorded covenant acknowledging and accepting the presence of the existing Working Waterfront 24-hour operations as permitted.”. In addition, MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley recommended the development agreement contain an exhibit featuring a line item budget of the estimated over $15 million in proposed “Public Benefits” within the impacted Miami River District area (such as unfunded public Riverwalk sections, Brickell Bridge transportation improvements, etc.) Chairman Murley noted the MRC recently supported the “Miami River” SAP which contained both of these recommendations, and asked Director Bibeau to provide this development team with that excellent sample Development Agreement, which featured both the aforementioned Working River Covenant and a line item budget for the “Public Benefits” funding within the Miami River District.

MRC UIWG Chairman Murley stated several months ago the Related Group asked for assistance from him and MRC Director Bibeau in seeking potential locations for U.S. Customs to relocate on the Miami River, as they have a current lease on the site. Chairman Murley asked for the status, and Ms Escarra indicated Ms Lisa Hillier will attend the next MRC subcommittee meeting to provide that update.

MRC Director Bibeau stated the City of Miami entered into a contract with FDOT when the City accepted an awarded $1,000,000 Federal Transportation Enhancement Program (TEP) grant to construct the fully designed on-road Miami River Greenway (8 foot wide mesa beige sidewalk, landscaping, benches, way-finding signage, informational kiosk, street, stormwater drainage, decorative trans cans, decorative lights, etc., along SE 5 ST from the Miami Circle Park to South Miami Ave Bridge in a portion of the subject area, along SW 3 Ave from the Miami River to connect with an existing section of the on-road Miami River Greenway beneath the South Miami Ave Bridge. The Grant funding contract requires these improvements to be in place for 30 years. If a developer wants to remove the improvements, another option which may be considered consistent with the grant contract is for the developer to pay for an equal section of the on-road Miami River Greenway to be constructed at another needed location, which is yet to have secured funding.

MRC Director Bibeau stated the plans appear to indicate 2 elevations within the City Charter required 50’ waterfront building setback. The public Riverwalk at grade, and the outdoor terrace elevated 11 feet above the riverwalk, featuring seating etc. for the 2 riverfront restaurants. MRC Director Bibeau noted the distributed City of Miami’s adopted zoning code “Appendix B: Waterfront Design Guidelines” requires all minimum 25 feet of the public riverwalk to be at the same at grade elevation, and it appears the terrace often pinches the public riverwalk to less than the minimum required 25 feet wide. The development team indicated it was intended to be a 25’ wide public riverwalk all at the same at grade elevation, and the remaining 25’ of the waterfront building setback area for the elevated outdoor terrace featuring seating etc. for the 2 riverfront restaurants, and they will improve the plan renditions etc. to clarify this intent to be consistent with the public riverwalk requirements contained in Zoning Code Section 3.11 and Appendix B. Director Bibeau respectfully recommended the plans insert more usage of the term “public riverwalk” and include the specific locations for the City’s required “Miami River Greenway Signage Design Standards and Guidelines” which indicate the public riverwalk, etc. Director Bibeau asked for the area of the 12’elevation difference between the public riverwalk and the outdoor terrace to be made aesthetically pleasing by featuring landscaping and or artwork. Chairman Murley suggested the developer highlight all the artwork on the adjacent Brickell Bridge, such as the metal panels featuring Mark Brickell on the west side of the Bridge facing this development site. Director Bibeau noted Ms Nina Torres produces the annual Miami River Art Fair during Art Basel week on the public riverwalk and James L Knight Convention center, on the immediate opposite shore of the Miami River from the subject development site. Ms Torres has been offering free monumental sculptures to be installed along the public riverwalk, and have already had some accept such as Epic, and hopefully the City of Miami will accept for all Riverfront Parks. Director Bibeau noted the western public sidewalk connector sidewalk, connecting the sidewalk on SE 5 ST to the public riverwalk, is only 6’ wide, and asked if it could become a little wider. Director Bibeau the Plans depict Brickell Bridge as having only 4 vehicular lanes, but it has more, so the accurate number of lanes should be depicted.

MRC UIWG Chairman Murley and MRC Director Bibeau thanked the developer team for their presentation. MRC UIWG Chairman Murley stated Director Bibeau would need some time to review the submitted 51 page detailed plans received just before today’s MRC subcommittee meeting. Ms Escarra stated One Brickell is scheduled to be presented to the City of Miami’s Urban Design Review Board (UDRB) on November 19, Planning Zoning and Appeals Board (PZAB) in January 2015, followed by City Commission. Director Bibeau stated considering he had previously emailed monthly invitations for months to present One Brickell in order to complete the MRC process before the first City hearing, therefore he was disappointed the invitations were not accepted early enough to complete the MRC’s process before UDRB’s 11/19 hearing on the item. Ms. Escarra stated she would provide the following prior to the MRC Urban Infill and Greenways subcommittee considering this item again during its December public meeting, with a goal to be considered by the full MRC during their January 5, 2015, public meeting, which is before PZAB and City Commission:

• Revised (2nd Draft) Plans
• 1st draft Development Agreement, featuring Public Riverwalk, Working River Covenant, and line item budget for the $15 million in public benefits within the Miami River District
• Transportation Analysis
  

V. New Business – The meeting adjourned.

Miami River Commission’s
Urban Infill & Greenways Subcommittee’s Combined Minutes

I. Review Proposed “One Brickell” Mixed-Use Development located at 444 Brickell, bordered by the Miami River on the north, Brickell Bridge on the east, SE 5 ST on the south and “Brickell on the River” development on the west
Ms. Iris Escarra, Greenberg Traurig, Mr Alfonso Jurado and Ms Princess Moquette, Arquitectonica, provided and presented the proposed 2nd draft “One Brickell” (“Miami River Commission submittal set 12/10/14”) Mixed-Use development plans. Ms. Escarra stated they would provide the Transportation Analysis via PDF when completed.
The development team distributed and presented Plans for “One Brickell, 444 Brickell Avenue, Miami River Commission Submittal Set December 10, 2014”. The development team stated the plans include the following three buildings developed in the following 2 construction Phases

Phase I
1. 75-story building parallel “Brickell on the River”, 480 “owned” residential units
2. 55-story building facing SE 5 ST, 500 “rental” residential units
Riverfront Restaurant (1 of 2)
Entire proposed public Riverwalk, connecting at grade to “Brickell on the River’s” existing public riverwalk on the west, and including beneath Brickell Bridge connecting at grade to existing public riverwalk at Miami Circle Park, plus 2 side yard connectors on the east and west and east, connecting the public riverwalk to the public sidewalk (Federal Grant funded planned on-road Miami River Greenway) on SE 5 ST

Phase II
3. 80-story building facing Brickell Ave, 420 residential units plus 249 room Hotel
Riverfront Restaurant (1 of 2)

Total = 1,400 residential units, plus 249 hotel rooms

The development team stated the proposal seeks to purchase an additional 868,399 square feet of density above 48 stories and beyond the sites current high density zoning and were considering the following options to do so:

1) Pay the City of Miami $17.82 per square foot, which would equate to $15,474,870, into the “Public Benefits” Program, or construct Public Benefits valued at the same amount.
2) Provide Affordable Housing
3) Donate Park and Land or improvements
4) LEED Gold = 3%, Platinum = 12%
5) Purchase unused development rights on a historic site from private sector

MRC subcommittee Chairs Murley, Martin and Bibeau noted a major consideration in the MRC’s advisory recommendation to support the recent “Miami River” SAP was the developer constructing $22 million of “Public Benefits” (including $5.2 million in transportation project line items), and noted the importance of using the first option, $15.4 million in public benefits expended in the impacted Miami River District, primarily on mobility and transportation projects, including extending the public Riverwalk off of the subject site. Attendees noted the project is adjacent to the Brickell Bridge, and the MRC has a list of unfunded transportation projects which would improve traffic during temporary regulated Bridge openings, including re-use of a recently removed vehicular travel lane on Brickell Bridge, smart signage warning motorists of bridge openings and providing alternate routes, SE 9 ST cut through beneath Metro-Rail in order to access alternate routes, etc. Director Bibeau stated creating $15.4 million of public benefits in the impacted area is a win-win for the impacted Miami River District, and marketability of the project, being able to note $15.4 million of area improvements will be constructed on needed mobility and transportation improvements in the impacted area, including but not limited to the public riverwalk. Ms. Escarra and Ms. Hillier, Related Group, stated they would speak with their client and ask the City if they constructed transportation improvement projects in the impacted Miami River District, would the City count the cost of those improvements towards their purchasing $15.4 million for 868,399 additional square feet of density above what the code allows.

Ms. Escarra stated the structures are all “fully lined” with habitable spaces. Ms Escarra stated the site currently has an active Marine Operating Permit and State Submerged Land Lease for 6 vessels, which they will maintain, and will ask their client about the concept of allowing a water taxi slip.

The development team stated the proposal features a 50-foot waterfront building setback and public riverwalk, consistent with the public riverwalk requirements contained in the City of Miami Zoning Code “3.11”, Appendix B and the City Charter section (mm) (ii) regarding the 50 foot waterfront building setback. In addition, the plans feature a proposed public riverwalk connection to be constructed by the developers beneath Brickell Bridge’s south shore, in order for the proposed “1 Brickell” public Riverwalk to continue east at grade and connect with the existing public riverwalk at the Miami Circle Park, as well as connect to the west at grade with existing public riverwalk at “Brickell on the River”. The development team stated this 2nd draft set of plans made improvements to the public riverwalk by increasing the unobstructed “circulation zone” to 16’ wide within the larger public riverwalk, and removed the extensions on the elevated restaurant deck portion of the 50’ foot waterfront building setback, which were encroaching on the lower public riverwalk area.

Ms Escarra stated the proposed mixed-use development will use its existing zoning and land use. Ms Escarra noted the project is seeking a reduction in the City Charter required view corridor (side-yards) from required 96’ (25% of waterfront’s 384.5 linear feet) to 73.2’ total, consisting of 30’ on the west and 43.2’ feet on the east (note states “22’-10” Proposed Max. Encroachment into view corridor”). Ms. Escarra noted the 22’-10’ encroachment into the side yard / view corridor setback applies to all floors above the 20’ tall ground level, where the full 96’ view corridor / side yard setback is provided. In addition, Ms. Escarra stated they will be seeking a waiver to reduce the required parking spaces by 30%, because the site is close to mass transit.

Jim Murley stated the MRC has been working in partnership with the City of Miami, Miami Parking Authority, and the State of Florida, seeking approval of the previously designed public riverwalk and public paid parking lot on the unimproved public right of way beneath Brickell Bridge’s south shore. MPA contracted archeologist Bob Carr whom has been seeking approvals from the State for well over a year. Ms. Escarra stated the Related Group also hired Bob Carr for required archeological work on the site. Ms Escarra stated the developer may consider providing the planned 30 public paid (at MPA rates) parking spots within their parking pedestal. Chairs Murley and Martin recommended a meeting with FDOT ASAP to start discussions regarding the Related Groups proposals for FDOT’s vacant public right of way beneath Brickell Bridge, including the public riverwalk.

Ms. Escarra provided their draft Working River Disclosure / Covenant required by the Comprehensive Plan PA-3.1.9, “Policy PA-3.1.9: The City shall require from new residential development and redevelopment located along the Miami River a recorded covenant acknowledging and accepting the presence of the existing Working Waterfront 24-hour operations as permitted.”.

MRC Urban Infill Chairman Murley and Martin recommended the proposal include in writing an exhibit featuring a line item budget of the estimated over $15 million in proposed “Public Benefits” within the impacted Miami River District are, such as unfunded public Riverwalk sections, Brickell Bridge transportation improvements, etc. Chairman Murley noted the MRC recently supported the “Miami River” SAP which contained both of these recommendations, and Director Bibeau stated he provided this development team with that excellent sample Development Agreement, which featured a line item budget for the “Public Benefits” funding within the Miami River District.

MRC UIWG Chairman Murley stated several months ago the Related Group asked for assistance from him and MRC Director Bibeau in seeking potential locations for U.S. Customs to relocate on the Miami River, as they have a current lease on the site. Chairman Murley asked for the status, and Ms. Lisa Hillier, Related stated Customs continues to make progress on finding a new location. Ms. Hillier stated Related Group is negotiating with Capital Grille which would like to remain open in their existing location (Phase II) until they can move into the new building when completed in Phase I.
MRC Director Bibeau stated the City of Miami entered into a contract with FDOT when the City accepted an awarded $1,000,000 Federal Transportation Enhancement Program (TEP) grant to construct the fully designed on-road Miami River Greenway (8 foot wide mesa beige sidewalk, landscaping, benches, way-finding signage, informational kiosk, street, stormwater drainage, decorative trans cans, decorative lights, etc., along SE 5 ST from the Miami Circle Park to South Miami Ave Bridge in a portion of the subject area, along SW 3 Ave from the Miami River to connect with an existing section of the on-road Miami River Greenway beneath the South Miami Ave Bridge. The Grant funding contract requires these improvements to be in place for 30 years. If a developer wants to remove the improvements, another option which may be considered consistent with the grant contract is for the developer to pay for an equal section of the on-road Miami River Greenway to be constructed at another needed location, which is yet to have secured funding.

MRC Director Bibeau stated the plans appear to indicate 2 elevations within the City Charter required 50’ waterfront building setback. The public Riverwalk at grade, and the outdoor terrace elevated 11 feet above the riverwalk, featuring seating etc. for the 2 riverfront restaurants. MRC Director Bibeau noted the distributed City of Miami’s adopted zoning code “Appendix B: Waterfront Design Guidelines” requires all minimum 25 feet of the public riverwalk to be at the same at grade elevation, and it appears the terrace often pinches the public riverwalk to less than the minimum required 25 feet wide. The development team indicated the current 2nd draft set of plans were revised in an effort to show the intended 25’ wide public riverwalk all at the same at grade elevation, and the remaining 25’ of the waterfront building setback area for the elevated outdoor terrace featuring seating etc. for the 2 riverfront restaurants, and they will improve the plan renditions etc. in a to be provided 3rd draft set of plans, to clarify this intent to be consistent with the public riverwalk requirements contained in Zoning Code Section 3.11 and Appendix B. Director Bibeau respectfully recommended the plans insert more usage of the term “public riverwalk” and include the specific locations for the City’s required “Miami River Greenway Signage Design Standards and Guidelines” which indicate the public riverwalk, etc. Director Bibeau asked for the area of the 12’ elevation difference between the public riverwalk and the outdoor terrace to be made aesthetically pleasing by featuring landscaping and or artwork, and the developer team replied it would be well landscaped. MRC Greenways Subcommittee Chairman Martin asked the developer team to widen the at-grade public riverwalk area, by pulling back & narrowing the elevated terrace for restaurant seating within the provided 50 foot waterfront building setback. Dr. Martin noted other adjacent public riverwalks feature restaurants on elevated terraces connecting to the public riverwalk within the 50 foot waterfront building setback, but the elevation difference is much less as preferred, such as Zuma in Epic, American Social in Neo Vertika, Miami River SAP, Ivy / Mint, etc. Ms. Escarra and Ms. Hillier stated they would consider MRC Greenways Subcommittee Martin’s recommendation, and discuss it with their client.

Ms. Escarra stated per Chairman Murley’s previous suggestion the developer will highlight all the artwork on the adjacent Brickell Bridge, such as the metal panels featuring Mark Brickell on the west side of the Bridge facing this development site, by cleaning them. Ms. Hillier showed a picture of large sculpture recently installed on the site which will remain in the new development.

Chairman, Murley, Martin and Director Bibeau noted concern about deferring construction of half of the public Riverwalk, east side connecting with existing public riverwalk at Miami Circle Park, to Phase II, and suggested constructing all of the proposed Riverwalk within Phase I, which would be tied to issuance of the Temporary Certificate of Use and Occupancy. Ms. Escarra showed a picture of the existing 2-story parking garage, with no waterfront setback, on the footprint of Phase II, which would not make it possible to construct the Phase II riverwalk until Phase I is completed (estimated 2019), followed by the demolition of the existing building on Phase II footprint and construction of the proposed new 80-story tower with the public riverwalk as presented. Director Bibeau noted the picture depicts a 5-foot wide cantilever boardwalk / dock which if repaired and restored could serve as a temporary public riverwalk until completion of Phase II. The developer team stated they would consider it.

MRC UIWG Chairman Murley and MRC Director Bibeau thanked the developer team for their presentation. MRC UIWG Chairman Murley stated Director Bibeau would need some time to review the recently submitted 51 page 2nd draft detailed plans. Ms Escarra stated One Brickell is was presented to the City of Miami’s Urban Design Review Board (UDRB) on November 19, and will be presented to the Planning Zoning and Appeals Board (PZAB) on February 4, 2015, followed by City Commission. Ms. Escarra stated she would provide the following prior to the MRC Urban Infill and Greenways subcommittee considering this item again during its January 2015 public meeting, with a goal to be considered by the full MRC during their February 2, 2015, public meeting, which is before PZAB and City Commission:

• Revised (3rd Draft) Plans
• Details on proposed option to purchase additional 868,399 square feet of additional density
• Transportation Analysis

II) Discuss Future Options for Vacant and Unimproved City Owned Riverfront 1 SW South River Drive
As requested by the MRC during their 12/1/14 public meeting, this item was placed on the MRC subcommittee public meeting agenda, followed by the full MRC’s 1/5/15 public meeting, noon, 1407 NW 7 ST. MRC Director Bibeau distributed the following backup information:

• Miami-Dade County Office of the Property Appraiser Summary Report for folio # 01-0201-010-1075, 1 SW South River Drive, 4,500 square feet, land value $193,500 and exempt from paying taxes as it is owned by the City of Miami.
• Aerial picture of the riverfront block including subject site, which is located between the “Riverside Garden” public space created by the City of Miami under FDOT’s Flagler Bridge, featuring a Manatee mural painted by Xavier Cortada and volunteers, and a recently demolished vacant building to the south under new ownership planning a luxury hotel
• Recent pictures taken on the site depicting invasive plant species (Brazilian Pepper, etc.) which have overtaken the shoreline, a broken wooden fence, litter, empty beer cans, used toilet paper, empty drug / “dime” bag, failing seawall, etc.
• City of Miami’s draft “1/6/2010” “Miami Riverfront Request for Letters of Interest” (“RFLI”)” for this subject site. Director Bibeau stated the Director of the City of Miami’s Property and Asset Management Department has changed 4 times over the past couple years, and the City continues to not advertise their drafted RFLI for this site, which was drafted 5 years ago. The City was invited to the meeting.
  
• Following 11/25/14 email from new owners of adjacent 1 SW South River Drive, whom have been invited to present their new plans to the MRC:
  “I will go ahead and list a few ideas off the top of my head, both offers we can make and different things we can ask in return.
  

Offers:
1) Lease the property from the City and be responsible for maintenance.
2) Build a brand new fence on their property.
3) Build a brand new seawall on their property (which would serve the exclusive purpose of continuing the Miami Riverwalk.)
4) Build the Riverwalk on the City's property.
5) Clean debris on the property.
6) Be responsible for security on the property.
7) Build the connecting entryway for the Miami Riverwalk on the property.
What we would be interested in:
1) Long-term lease on the property.
2) Increase density on our current properties (number of units and FLR).
Like I said, we are at an ideal point to reach agreements with the City since we are contracting a lot of the work that will be done in the following months, including fences, seawall, docks, construction, etc.
We are committed to having a positive impact on South River Drive and will probably acquire more property on the same street, which in itself shows our commitment and our believe in the area.
Like I said before, I am open and willing to meet, discuss, and negotiate with the City different options that will, first and foremost, improve our neighborhood.

Warmest regards,
Arturo Ortega”

Considering the City of Miami drafted their RFLI 5 years agoi but never advertised it, attendees noted the City is apparently not interested in advertising their RFLI. Director Bibeau stated if needed the MRFI may consider providing a cost share and volunteers to assist in cleaning up the site if it will be become a publicly accessible park / greenspace.

MRC Greenways subcommittee Chairman Martin & Urban Infill subcommittee Chairman Murley suggested the MRC recommend the City of Miami make their vacant and unimproved riverfront 1 SW South River Drive into a public park / greenspace.

New Business – Attendees thanked the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) for including 14 way-finding signs which point to the Riverwalk in their Downtown Signage and Wayfinding Program which was put out to bid with manufacturing estimated to take place in the coming months.

Attendees noted the upcoming Flagler ST improvements will stop east of the Miami River and North River Drive. The City of Miami is considering a major bond issue which could include funding for Phase II Flagler ST improvements to extend to the Miami River and North River Drive, where “Flagler on the River” 250 residential units, office and retail space just opened (95% occupied) and a new riverfront restaurant is planned. MRC Chairman Aguirre, Greenways subcommittee Chairman Martin, and Urban Infill subcommittee Chairman Murley agreed the MRC should advocate for needed funding within the potential new City bond issue for projects within the Miami River District, including but not limited to finishing the public Miami River Greenway, as they successfully did in the City and County’s most recent bond issues (2003) which provided significant funding for Miami River District projects.

MRC Director Bibeau stated he had recently provided an informational tour of the Upper River, especially the section parallel with the Railroad, to Luis Perez-Codina, Enterprise Florida, INC International Logistics & Supply Chain and Carlos Castro, FDOT District Freight Coordinator. Mr. Castro noted considering the Port of Miami River is now included in the State’s Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) plan (after years of MRC advocacy), the Port of Miami River is now eligible for available funding for improvements to the Port of Miami River. Per previously adopted MPO / MRC Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan, this area has critical infrastructure to link multiple-modes of freight & cargo transportation from the Port of Miami River’s international shipping terminals, adjacent Railroad, MIA, short sea shipping, Port of Miami, etc.

MRC UIWG Chairman Murley provided the informational flyer for FT Lauderdale’s “Riverwalk Water Trolley, Your FREE Ride across the River” featuring 8 stops along the New River. MRC UIWG Chairman Murley provided the business card for Robyn Chiarelli, Executive Director of Downtown Fort Lauderdale Transportation Management Association” and asked MRC Director Bibeau to invite her to the next MRC UIWG public meeting.

MRC Chairman Aguirre stated the City of Miami Commission has invited him to present a 10 minute “State of the Miami River” speech at a future televised City Commission public meeting, and perhaps it would be possible to make a similar presentation with PowerPoint to the Miami-Dade County Commission, SFWMD, etc.

The meeting adjourned.