Convention Center headquarters hotel on track for 2027 opening; commissioners press contractor for safer pedestrian access during construction
Summary
Construction teams reported foundation and vertical work under way and an anticipated 2027 hotel opening; commissioners raised safety concerns about sidewalk closures and asked for improved covered walkways and signage along Seventeenth Street and Convention Center Drive.
City and developer representatives updated the committee that foundation work for the Miami Beach Convention Center headquarters hotel is underway, vertical work has begun and the project remains on track for topping out in 2026 and hotel opening in 2027.
Commissioners raised safety issues for pedestrians on Seventeenth Street adjacent to the construction zone, noting narrow walking paths and metal barricades that force people into traffic. Contractors said the building footprint goes “lot line to lot line,” requiring use of adjacent sidewalk space for materials and staging; staff said the project will install hard perimeter panels and clearer signage and that a planned diagonal crosswalk on Convention Center Drive should relieve some pedestrian pressure within weeks.
Commissioners urged the project team to provide a covered, protected walkway where feasible before the high season and to improve signage and route clarity. City staff indicated they will explore possible temporary covered walkways once the shell is up and will coordinate with the contractor, FDOT and Public Works on signage and sidewalk access plans.
Takeaway: Construction remains on the projected timeline for a 2027 opening, but the committee requested immediate action to improve pedestrian safety and sidewalk access around the construction perimeter.
