JDS Development proposes 330-foot tower at 1250 West Avenue in Miami Beach

The second community meeting regarding the proposed development at 1250 West Avenue took place on May 12, 2025, in Miami Beach, Florida. The meeting aimed to discuss the application for an overlay zone that would facilitate the construction of a new building to replace the existing deteriorating condominium structure.

The meeting began with a brief overview of the proposal, which seeks to increase the maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for the property. Following this introduction, Melissa Tapinez, representing the developer JDS Development, presented the project details. She emphasized the intention to create a building that enhances the West Avenue corridor while being less impactful to neighboring properties than what could be built under current zoning laws.

Key points from the presentation included a significant reduction in the proposed building height from an initial 420 feet to 330 feet, which is shorter than several nearby buildings. Tapinez highlighted that the project aims to eliminate the Bikini Hostel, which has been a source of nuisance in the area, and to complete the Bay Walk project, enhancing public access along the waterfront.

Michael Stern, the founder of JDS Development, reiterated the importance of community engagement throughout the planning process. He addressed concerns raised by local residents and clarified that the project would not set a new height precedent, as it aligns with the existing context of the neighborhood. Stern also noted that the proposed development would reduce the number of residential units from 238 to 25, thereby decreasing density and minimizing traffic and resource demands.

The developers committed to prohibiting outdoor restaurant seating and ensuring that the new building would not allow short-term rentals, which are currently permitted under existing zoning. They also proposed creating a public park at the site of the Bikini Hostel and completing the Bay Walk segments that are currently underfunded.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the developers to continue engaging with the community and city officials as the project moves forward. The proposal will be reviewed again by the city commission on May 21 and June 25, 2025, marking the next steps in the development process.