Committee backs "organic" design for Miami Beach Promenade, sends recommendation to commission

The Public Safety and Neighborhood Quality of Life Committee voted July 15 to recommend that the full City Commission adopt the consultant-recommended "organic paths" concept for the Miami Beach Promenade master plan, which would add curving walkways, additional landscaping and new stormwater bioretention areas between 24th and 29th streets.

David Gomez, director of capital improvements, told the committee the project is at 50% design and that the presentation reflected extensive community engagement including charrettes and an online survey. Consultant Ralph Ferrer of Curtis and Rogers said the organic option favors softer, flowing paths, increased tree canopy, limited seating and strategically placed nodes for art and wayfinding. "The organic concept strengthens walkability, provides more area for bioretention and improves visibility and safety," Ferrer said.

The recommendation follows public comment from residents and stakeholders. Property owner Mike Curente said he learned of the agenda item shortly before the meeting and urged more outreach before any final decisions. "I respectfully request deep community engagement before transforming this incredible community asset," Curente said. Resident Sarah de los Reyes asked whether landscaped areas and new planting would be maintained by the city; staff said maintenance policy and operations will be set when the commission approves the capital project.

The committee motion asked staff to complete the master plan using the organic-paths concept and forward the recommendation to the City Commission. Commissioner Mateo Salinas made the motion and Vice Mayor Laura Dominguez seconded; the committee adopted the recommendation unanimously.

Why it matters: The promenade stretches behind a series of condominium properties and has seen little capital investment for decades. The chosen concept would increase shade, treat stormwater onsite and aim to reduce micro-mobility speeds while balancing resident access to building amenity decks.

Next steps: Staff will complete design details and return a 100% master plan to the commission in a future meeting; staff and consultants said additional public outreach and more technical design work (bollard types, access points, shower location options and CPTED review with police) will follow.