County discusses $8M funding overrun for Dolphin Park and Ride facility enhancements

The Citizens' Independent Transportation Trust (CITT) of Miami-Dade County convened on June 25, 2025, to address significant funding issues related to the Dolphin Park and Ride facility. The meeting focused on an $8 million cost overrun associated with the project, which has been operational for five years.

The discussion began with a question regarding the allocation of the additional funding. A member of the trust inquired why the overrun would not be shared with other agencies, suggesting that federal funds or grants could have been explored. This led to a broader examination of the project's financial history, including its original budget of $10 million, which was split between the Florida Department of Transportation and the People’s Transportation Plan surtax.

Director Miller provided clarity on the situation, explaining that the county had requested additional amenities for the park and ride facility, which included electric vehicle charging stations and a parking management system. These enhancements were not mandated by the Florida Department of Transportation but were specific requests from the county, made several years prior.

The meeting also highlighted the complexities surrounding the transition from the Miami-Dade Expressway Authority (MDX) to the Greater Miami Expressway (GMX). This transition involved legal disputes that complicated the reimbursement process for the additional costs incurred. Director Miller noted that the county had been uncertain about which entity to reimburse due to the legislative changes and ongoing lawsuits.

Overall, the meeting underscored the challenges faced by the county in managing transportation projects and the importance of clear communication and agreements among agencies. The trust members expressed appreciation for the facility's success while emphasizing the need for better financial oversight in future projects. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address these issues moving forward, ensuring that similar funding discrepancies are avoided in the future.