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Commission backs Option B for City Hall restoration, orders follow‑up for construction documents
Summary
The commission approved a comprehensive restoration plan for Coral Gables City Hall that restores the courtyard’s original symmetry, repairs exterior masonry and columns and redesigns the chamber to restore historic character and increase public seating. Staff will proceed to construction documents and seek a construction manager at risk.
Coral Gables’ commission approved a city‑led restoration plan for City Hall on Oct. 28 that calls for extensive exterior masonry repair, structural reinforcement for the colonnade, and a restoration of the historic courtyard and civic chamber.
Preservation architects presented a detailed assessment documenting cracked cast stone, damaged column capitals, water infiltration and spalling across the City Hall facade. The architects proposed restoring the original courtyard geometry, removing later mid‑century additions and reinstating planters and walkways designed by city founder Phineas Paist. Interior work includes reopening windows, restoring wainscoting and millwork, and reconfiguring the commission chamber to increase public seating while restoring historic character.
Commissioners approved ‘Option B,’ the plan that reinstates the courtyard and a design for the dias and chamber that preserves original material character and modernizes accessibility and audiovisual systems. Staff said the next steps will include hiring a construction manager at risk and finalizing construction documents; the commission also approved the CMAR procurement on the same agenda.
Why it matters: City Hall is a century‑old landmark and the seat of municipal government; the approved plan aims to preserve historic fabric while addressing accessibility, structural safety and modern program needs.
Speakers quoted on the record: • Preservation architect: “The colonnade requires careful structural reinforcement — some columns must be shored for safe in‑place repairs or scanned for 3‑D replication if unsalvageable.” • Mayor Vince Lago: “If we do this, let’s do it right — restore the historic character and make it functional for the next century.”
Actions: The commission approved Option B for City Hall restoration and authorized staff to move forward to procure a construction manager at risk and finish construction documents. Procurement for the CMAR was later awarded to Thornton Construction Company, the highest‑ranked proposer.
