The "Miami Beach Promenade" (formerly called Miami Beach Drive) is located east of Collins Ave. and just west (and parallel to) the Beachwalk from 24th Street to 29th Street in MidBeach.
The Miami Beach Promenade is part of the historical John Collins Waterfront District of Miami Beach, founded by John Collins, who built his first home in this area between 24th and 25th street. Along with Carl Fisher and the Lummus Brothers, Collinswas a founder and developer of Miami Beach. Although initially it was a vehicular drive, the City at some point converted this "drive" into a public "pedestrian only" walkway.
WHY IS THE MBNA INVOLVED WITH THE MIAMI BEACH DRIVE?
Miami Beach Promenade is located within the boundaries of the MidBeach Neighborhood Association.
For several years, several Condo Associations that are MBNA Members, have been asking the City to maintain the Promenade in order to make it safe and aesthetically pleasing. The City responded that it is the responsibility of property owners abutting MBD to maintain not only only the landscaping, but also the concrete path and other structural components.
The private properties abutting MBD have always known that they are responsible for maintaining only the "landscaping" installed by the City; (per Sec. 126-6. Landscaping Criteria below) but not the concrete sidewalk or brick pavers that lie within Miami Beach Drive; (see Case 06-16546 CA below.)
The MBNA requested the City to provide documentation regarding who is responsible for the different aspects of the maintenance of MBD. The City submitted documents (see link below) that MBNA does not consider to be valuable evidence.
MBNA Members are very concerned about the liability risks they would assume if it is determined that the abutting private properties are responsible for maintaining this public City owned walkway.
As photos below demonstrate, many sections of the Miami Beach Drive are currently not only an eyesore, with areas that often flood, but are also a life safety issue.
The MBNA feels that it is the City's responsibility to immediately initiate repairs on safety issues and allocate funding for the concrete repairs, drainage upgrades, and necessary aesthetic improvements to this valuable MidBeach promenade.
MBNA GOALS and VISION for the future of MIAMI BEACH DRIVE
May 31, 2025 Current Conditions The current state of the Miami Beach Promenade reflects a patchwork of surfaces, inconsistent materials, and aged infrastructure. While the promenade serves as a crucial pedestrian link along the coastline, its aesthetic and functional potential remain underutilized. Cracked tiles, faded colors, and a lack of cohesive design reduce its charm and vibrancy. Lighting is outdated and uneven, with minimal shade or seating areas. The existing layout is largely linear and does not encourage interaction, leisure, or exploration.
MBNA's Vision The Mid-Beach Neighborhood Association (MBNA) envisions a transformed promenade that serves as both a pedestrian thoroughfare and a celebrated public space. Our vision is not prescriptive in terms of specific designs or materials but is rooted in principles that encourage engagement, accessibility, and visual delight. The promenade should become a world-class public amenity that balances form and function, celebrating our beachfront heritage while supporting daily use by residents and visitors alike. Vision Concepts
Playful, Curved Geometry
Inspired by the Frost Museum walkway, MBNA supports a shift from the existing straight-line path to a more dynamic, curving layout. Gentle curves and wave-like movements in the path design evoke the natural shoreline and create a more organic and exploratory walking experience. This slows down movement, encouraging moments of rest, reflection, and interaction.
Interactive Art and Sculptures
We support the inclusion of interactive coastal or marine-themed sculptures—such as sea turtles, dolphins, and shells—particularly those designed by local artists. These can serve both decorative and educational purposes, while also functioning as playful installations for families and children. Integrating tactile and sensory elements enhances accessibility and enjoyment for all ages.
Whimsical Ground Design
Etched or imprinted concrete featuring sea life, shells, and abstract coastal motifs can transform the path surface into a visual experience. Colorful, textured surfaces using soft beach tones—such as sand, turquoise, and seafoam—can subtly guide foot traffic while beautifying the walkway without overwhelming it. These designs create a sense of place that is uniquely Miami Beach.
Vision for Total Renovation MBNA envisions a unified and inviting promenade that embodies the natural rhythm of the beach while offering functional and beautiful spaces for everyone. We propose a holistic redesign that improves connectivity, comfort, and aesthetics without dictating exact specifications—leaving room for thoughtful, creative design solutions.
Design Concepts and Recommendations
Curved Geometry & Layout: Incorporate gentle curves and wave-like paths to mimic the natural landscape. These organic shapes help break visual monotony and enhance pedestrian experience.
Interactive Art and Identity: Install sculptures inspired by marine life and beach culture. Use mosaic tiles and embedded elements designed by local artists to tell a story of place.
Whimsical Ground Design: Use textured, colored, and imprinted surfaces to reflect the natural and cultural identity of the area.
Unified Surfacing: Replace current patchwork with slip-resistant, uniform pavers in coastal tones Integrate stormwater-friendly permeable materials.
Lighting Upgrade: Replace lighting with turtle-friendly fixtures along the path and entry points.
Public Amenities and Access Improvements: Create dedicated community zones: artist performance areas, fitness stations, and children's play areas. Remove showers from the promenade and relocate them to the beach side.
Redesign property pool access entries to be shorter and less obstructive.
Ensure ADA-compliant transitions and use QR signage for navigation and updates.
Value It Would Bring
Aesthetic Boost: A resort-like public space improves neighborhood character and property values.
Safety and Accessibility: Reduces hazards and enhances usability for all ages and abilities.
Environmental Responsibility: Supports sustainability through native planting, stormwater control, and energy-efficient lighting.
Economic Activity: Increased use supports small businesses and local vendors.
Civic Pride and Community Wellness: A beautiful promenade fosters community gathering, recreation, and pride in place.
Conceptual Ideas:
Historical Section:
April 13, 2024 conditions of the Miami Beach Promenade:
Below are communications since 2022 between the MBNA and City Staff regarding the Miami Beach Promenade:
February, 2024: The MBNA supports Commissioner Alex Fernandez's request for the allocation of $500k toward a "Feasibility Study" and Plans for the subsequent development of a Master Plan for the future enhancements of Miami Beach Drive. Please click button below to read the Memorandum from Commissioner Fernandez:
On September 12, 2023, we received an email from Joe Gomez, Dept of Public Works Director, explaining the approach that will be forthcoming:
Short term (0-3 months):
Complete repairs of lifted or broken pavers or concrete
Installation of bollards at the 24th and 29th St ends, as per the proposal submitted to you and Commissioner Fernández- pending confirmation from MBNA.
Address any landscaping issues
Work with Facilities to address the beach walk entrances, including painting of knee walls and address shower installations, etc.
Address pressure washing issues and continue routine cleaning and maintenance.
Mid term (6 to 12 months):
Address drainage concerns behind Club Atlantis. This will require identification of funding, design, permitting and construction. Permitting requirements may extend the time frame to implement.
Long term ( 24 to 48 months):
Work with MBNA and the community to identify a project to develop an overall Master Plan for long term improvements to MBD. This would probably be a CIP led project. I have spoken with David Martínez regarding this future project and he is receptive to leading this effort. Obviously this would require identification of budget in future FY years.
Public Works is already actively working on the short term items and Facilities has been made aware of their items and they are fully engaged. I hope this is helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions.
4/24/23 Email sent to the MBNA from Kevin Pulido:
MEETINGS:
Several MBNA Working Group Meetings have taken place virtually with City Officials and Staff to address safety concerns and maintenance needs of Miami Beach Drive. These took place on October 7 2022, and January 4, 2023. Attendees from the City have included Kevin Pulido, Gabriella Gonzalez, Ariel Guitian, Thomas Curitore (Code Compliance).
On MARCH 13, 2023 a meeting was held on site at City-Hall
Four MBNA Executive Board Members (Anamarie, Oscar, Alicia and Esteban) and two condo reps met at City Hall with Commissioner Fernandez, Asst. City Manager, Asst. City Attorney, Public Works Director and Asst. Director, and other City Officials. During the meeting, MBNA reminded City Officials that for several years the MBNA has been petitioning the City to correct safety concerns (see photos below) and flooding within the this five block public right-of-way that is used by the public and City vehicles.
After some discussion, City Officials agreed that this area, (excluding the area behind Club Atlantis which was deeded to the City in 1981), is indeed owned by the City and therefore must be maintained by the City accordingly. City staff agreed to perform a walk-thru of the area soon to determine safety concerns so they can begin making those repairs ASAP. Commissioner Fernandez agreed to refer this item to Committee and hopes future plans for full renovations of MBD can be included in the upcoming Budget. The MBNA appreciates the efforts of Commissioner Fernandez on behalf of the MBNA members, especially those that abut Miami Beach Drive. Photos taken during Meeting:
On-Site Meeting: Three MBNA Executive Board Members (Alicia, Oscar and Esteban) and two condo reps, met on site and walked from 24th street thru 29th Street with Commissioner Fernandez, Joe Gomez (Public Works Director), Michael Atkins (Greenspace Division Director), Kevin Pulido, and several members of City Staff. Photos were taken of all the areas within MBD with significant dips, cracks, holes, etc. that are safety concerns and that need the City's immediate attention and repair. Numerous discussions took place regarding the vision for this valuable CMB public promenade. Photos taken during walk-thru:
REASONS WHY MBNA FEELS THAT MIAMI BEACH DRIVE IS A COMMUNITY RIGHT OF WAY THAT BELONGS TO THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH:
Following are some important precedents and historical information that supports the fact that Miami Beach Drive (MBD) is a community right of way that belongs to the City and therefore, the City is responsible for maintaining a safe, user friendly, and aesthetically pleasing public promenade. 1. PROPERTY SURVEYS: Miami Beach Drive does not appear on the surveys of the properties located directly in-front of this walkway. The County records for the affected properties clearly exclude MBD as part of the subject property boundaries. 2. PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY:Miami Beach Drive does not have a "folio number" so it is considered a "public right of way" that is owned by the City of Miami Beach. 3. DECISION MAKING: The City has always made unilateral decisions on the use of this public walkway. This includes policing, using as staging areas for construction projects, maintaining areas, using area as an access road by City vehicles, negotiating with Citi Bikes for station locations, etc. The abutting private properties have never been asked to provide input on any of these decisions made by the City. 4. AREA MAINTENANCE: The City does not have "maintenance agreements" with any of the properties abutting MBD. The City has a history of maintaining Miami Beach Drive, including installation of brick pavers, light posts, trash receptacles, etc. Additionally, violations have been issued by CMB Code Enforcement for incidents taking place on MBD. Utility and construction vehicles, including CMB vehicles, also traverse the area often; (see photos and video below.) These have created sections with dips and uneven levels between the concrete and the pavers that are hazardous to users, do not meet the City's ADA standards, and are a safety concern. 5. BEACHWALK CONSTRUCTION PERIOD: Miami Beach Drive was used by the City for over two years to access adjacent "staging areas" for the Beachwalk project, without any involvement by the private properties. During this time, heavy construction trucks caused the pavers to sink in many areas, creating tripping hazards. During these years, the City also diverted pedestrian traffic onto Miami Beach Drive. The diverted pedestrian and bicycle traffic resulted in increased wear and tear to the pavers and the concrete.
COURT DOCUMENTS FROM TWO LAWSUITSRESULTING FROM FALLS ON MIAMI BEACH DRIVE.
CONCLUSION It has now been established that Miami Beach Drive is a City owned public right-of-way from 24th thru 29th street; (excluding the stretch directly behind Club Atlantis which was deeded to the Condo Association in 1981. The Association is currently in the process of addressing this issue). Therefore, theMBNA is requesting the City of Miami Beach to immediately address the safety concerns, drainage issues, concrete repairs, and vehicular traffic control of this important mid beach asset. MBNA is also petitioning for the total renovation of this valuable promenade so that both residents and visitors are able to enjoy a safe and beautiful "MID- BEACH PROMENADE" in this area of our community. (See MBNA's Goals and Vision below). -March, 2023
CMB REQUEST STATUS FORMS from 2018, 2019 and 2022 demonstrating the City's communications with regard to maintenance issues on Miami Beach Drive.
February 27, 2023 photos of the conditions of MIAMI BEACH DRIVE. As can be seen, there are many areas where the level surface is uneven with a difference above a quarter inch which is considered a "tripping hazard."
VIDEOS AND PHOTOS taken on February 15, 2023 of CMB service vehicles using Miami Beach Drive:
PHOTOS of flooding seen on Miami Beach Drive:
2023 MBNA'S VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF MIAMI BEACH DRIVE:
