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Two finalist teams present landscape master-plan pitches; award deferred
Summary
Curtis & Rogers and a Miller-led multidisciplinary team presented competing proposals for South Miami27s landscape master plan. Each described canopy and low‑impact design approaches; procurement rules prevented an immediate award and the item was relisted for the next meeting.
Two shortlisted firms presented competing proposals for the city27s landscape master plan on Oct. 1, offering distinct approaches to canopy, resiliency and streetscape identity.
Aida Curtis, founder of Curtis & Rogers Design Studio and a long-time South Miami resident, emphasized data-driven mapping (LIDAR/GIS) of tree canopy, urban heat-island analysis, stormwater-based swales and community-informed plant typologies. Curtis said prior projects had included inventorying tens of thousands of trees and producing public engagement materials such as door-hangers and guides to build community support for tree planting.
A competing team led by Mike Kroll (introduced himself as president of his firm) showcased multidisciplinary capacity — landscape architecture plus civil engineering, surveying and low-impact design — and pointed to prior projects that secured state grant funding for stormwater and streetscape work. Both teams addressed tree succession, species diversity, and maintenance strategies to increase long-term canopy resilience.
Procurement next steps: the city attorney and staff explained the item was not advertised for award action tonight and the commission agreed to relist the contract for the next meeting (manager27s recommendation will be presented at the next session). Commissioners asked for clearer visual before-and-after renderings, specific planting palettes that fit South Miami27s identity, and assurances about ongoing maintenance responsibilities.
