More Development Secures $76.81 Million Loan for SoWy: A Vibrant, Sustainable Mixed-Use Project in Miami

An international real estate company based in Miami and Nassau, Bahamas, More Development, has secured a significant $76.81 million loan for their latest venture, SoWy. This upcoming mixed-use development is set to transform the Wynwood and Overtown areas, situated north of Downtown Miami. The loan was announced by More Development President Whitney Thier and was provided by JP Morgan Chase.

The SoWy project spans nearly eight acres and includes 26 parcels across six blocks along 2nd Avenue, between NW 20th and 22nd Street. The site offers nearly 2.5 million base buildable square feet, even before considering the provisions of the Live Local Act. Initial plans for SoWy feature flexible and adaptable multi-use indoor and outdoor spaces, all housed within site-specific architectural buildings.

A key aspect of the SoWy development is its integration of residential spaces within a dynamic, creative environment, all while focusing on sustainability. More Development, which maintains an office within the SoWy site, is dedicated to respecting the unique cultural and artistic vibe of Wynwood and Overtown, ensuring seamless integration with the neighborhoods’ atmosphere.

Whitney Thier emphasized this commitment, stating, “More Development values artistry, craftsmanship, and history, and we were drawn to the soul and rich history of the area. With financing in place, we are ready to realize the initial phase of our plans to invigorate the neighborhood with a new vibrant environment where people can live, work, shop, dine, and play in a pedestrian-friendly and art-forward setting. We are eager to be a part of the community and are fully committed to preserving and enhancing the area’s distinctive character and contributing positively to its ongoing evolution. SoWy will build upon Wynwood and Overtown’s unique culture that attracts a diverse mix of residents of all ages and backgrounds.”

Wynwood is renowned for its vibrant street art, trendy galleries, and eclectic mix of shops and eateries. The neighborhood has experienced significant growth in recent years, with visitor numbers rising from 240,000 in 2013 to 15 million annually in 2023, according to the Wynwood Business Improvement District.

Overtown, on the other hand, is recognized for its historical significance and vibrant African-American heritage. Once known as the “Harlem of the South,” Overtown has been a cultural hub for music, arts, and community gatherings. The neighborhood is home to historic landmarks such as the Lyric Theater and hosts numerous cultural events celebrating its legacy.

More Development has a remarkable track record, having developed over seven million square feet of mixed-use property worldwide. The company is well-known for projects such as Baha Mar, a large resort in The Bahamas that includes three luxury hotels, 30 restaurants, bars, lounges, an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, 10 swimming pools, a world-class spa, and the largest casino in the Caribbean. More recently, they completed Arev St. Tropez, a bespoke luxury hotel in the French Riviera, and are currently developing Mahogany Hill, a collection of luxury condominium residences in Nassau, The Bahamas.

With the SoWy project, More Development is set to enhance the vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods of Wynwood and Overtown. The project promises to create a new, dynamic environment that respects the unique character of these areas while offering modern, sustainable living spaces. As the development moves forward, it will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing evolution and growth of Miami.