Miami Funds $58 Million In 'Quality Of Life' Projects

MIAMI, FL — Miami Commissioners gave the green light to an initial $58 million bond issue on Thursday that will fund shovel-ready projects to combat sea level rise, create new affordable housing projects, improve four miles of roadways, upgrade public playgrounds and enhance city-owned parks. The projects will be the first under a $400 million Miami Forever Bond approved by voters in November 2017.

“This allows us to get started on shovel-ready projects to build a stronger, more resilient future for our city," declared Miami Mayor Francis Suarez. "Today’s approval is also a huge step for us to continue identifying projects that will improve our residents’ quality of life by targeting our resiliency, affordable housing, and public safety needs.”

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Officials have been working with residents to identify and prioritize a series of bond-funded projects over the past year. The Miami Forever Bond is intended for projects that address flood prevention and sea level rise mitigation, parks and cultural facilities, roadway improvements, affordable housing and economic development or public safety.

"We can move forward with thoughtfully selected projects that will have an immediate impact while also creating lasting benefits to Miamians," explained City Manager Emilio Gonzalez. "We will strengthen the city of Miami by adapting to, and mitigating, existing and future risks to our residents, our economy and the city’s legacy."

Here's the breakdown of the bond funding allocation approved by commissioners:

• $10.3 million toward fighting sea level rise, including a redesign of Brickell Bay Drive and the installation of 50 new one-way valves
• $15 million for new affordable housing projects and a single-family home rehabilitation program
• $420,000 for upgrades to Fire Station No. 10 at 4101 NW 7th Street in Miami
• $7.6 million to improve nearly four miles of roads
• $25.3 million to enhance public parks, including upgrading playgrounds, repairing sidewalks and enhancing accessibility.

Miami Francis Suarez (podium left) addresses commissioners at Thursday's meeting