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Commission OKs 760 Ponds project on first reading after neighborhood negotiations
Summary
On first reading the Coral Gables City Commission approved amendments enabling the 760 Ponds mixed‑use project — a five‑story, Mediterranean‑designed development with four townhomes, internalized drop‑off and 545 parking spaces — after the developer and neighbors reached negotiated conditions on traffic calming, tree preservation and streetscape improvements.
The Coral Gables City Commission voted on first reading to advance a zoning and planned‑area development package for the 760 Ponds mixed‑use project, following a multi‑year outreach process between residents, staff and the applicant.
Developer representatives said the project replaces an outdated medical office and surface parking with a mixed‑use building oriented to Ponce de Leon, plus four townhomes along the residential edge. Architect Robert Behar said the design keeps primary vehicular loading and drop‑off inside the block and preserves mature trees the neighborhood asked to save. “We pushed the commercial building back to be away from the line of sight from the residential unit,” Behar said during the presentation.
Planning staff recommended approval with conditions, including a maximum height of five stories (61 feet), four townhomes fronting Bovedaia, a public plaza on Ponce de Leon, intersection improvements and traffic‑calming measures. Zoning director Jennifer Garcia told the commission staff had performed multiple neighborhood meetings, posted notices as required, and supported the plan after the applicant incorporated resident feedback.
Public comment was mixed. Maria Cruz, a nearby resident, warned that five stories would overwhelm adjacent single‑family lots and predicted traffic impacts: “How do you buffer a five‑story building in front of your house?” she asked. Other residents, including Vicky Busso, told the commission they had negotiated changes and now support the project.
Mayor Vince Lago and other commissioners pressed for firm, resident‑vetted traffic‑calming plans and sidewalk connectivity before second reading. Lago asked staff to secure documented sign‑off on traffic calming and to coordinate with Miami‑Dade County where applicable.
On roll call the commission approved E2 (comprehensive plan amendment), E3 (zoning map changes) and E4 (planned area development) on first reading; Commissioner Castro recorded a lone “No” vote on the items.
Next steps: staff and the applicant will return with the traffic‑calming detail, final streetscape drawings and any county coordination required before the second‑reading vote.
