City updates capital projects budget with $4M increase and new allocations

The Finance and Economic Resiliency Committee of Miami Beach made significant strides in its latest meeting, focusing on capital project funding and budget allocations. A key highlight was the decision to add item number 77 from the enhancement list into the recurring general fund budget, signaling a commitment to ongoing financial support for essential projects.

During the meeting, it was revealed that the city has increased its capital project funding by over $4 million compared to previous requests, now covering 45% of the total requested amount. This increase was made possible by transferring funds from the operating budget, which rose from $4.9 million to $8.4 million. The committee emphasized the importance of these funds in addressing various capital projects, including critical infrastructure improvements.

Among the notable projects funded are renovations at Fire Station Number 2, a standby generator for the Ocean Rescue headquarters, and significant upgrades to the Miami Beach Police Department firing range. The committee also announced that the West Avenue Phase 3 project is now fully funded, including both stormwater and above-ground components, although there remains a shortfall of approximately $15 million for water and sewer improvements.

Additional allocations include $250,000 for the Marine Park design phase, $400,000 for improvements to Alton Court Alley, and $90,000 for traffic enhancements on Meridian Avenue. The committee plans to keep $1.9 million in RDA bonds for resurfacing Seventeenth Street, with design work expected to begin soon.

These decisions reflect the committee's proactive approach to enhancing the city's infrastructure and ensuring economic resiliency, setting the stage for future developments and improvements in Miami Beach.