Shaping the Future of Watson Island-Miami Voters to Decide on Watson Harbour Project

July 30, 2024

Miami residents will now be able to cast their votes on the approval of the Watson Harbour project, a new mixed-use development proposed for the south side of Watson Island. This ambitious project, set to enhance one of South Florida’s prime waterfront areas, includes plans for hotels, retail outlets, offices, residences, dining options, and expansive public spaces, all strategically located on Biscayne Bay between Downtown Miami and Miami Beach.

The developers, BH3 Management and Merrimac Ventures, acquired the 10.8-acre site at 888 Macarthur Causeway in 2023. They have developed a privately funded proposal to revitalize the area, featuring:

• Two luxury hotels
• Retail spaces for shopping and dining
• Office buildings and residential units
• A 2.2-acre public promenade along Biscayne Bay
• Green spaces and a maritime museum
• Infrastructure and resiliency upgrades

The project is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, including several million dollars in additional tax revenue for Miami. It also promises a wide range of community benefits, such as:

• Employment opportunities for residents from underserved communities
• Retail spaces allocated for nonprofit organizations
• Infrastructure improvements on City-owned properties
• A $9 million contribution towards affordable housing and public infrastructure

Watson Harbour will include several sustainability measures to protect and enhance the local environment, such as:

• A seawall built above base flood elevation standards
• Planting of native flora and expansion of the tree canopy
• Energy-efficient LED and solar-powered lighting
• An on-site stormwater management system designed to prevent pollution of Biscayne Bay

Greg Freedman and Daniel Lebensohn, Co-CEOs of BH3 Management, shared their excitement: “Watson Island is poised to become a vibrant destination for all, boosting Miami’s economy and offering a new gathering spot for the community. We’re honored to bring this vision to life and integrate Watson Harbour into the city’s fabric.”

Nitin Motwani and Dev Motwani, co-Managing Partners at Merrimac Ventures, emphasized the project’s focus on public spaces: “As Downtown Miami grows, the need for additional public spaces is clear. Our waterfront promenade will provide a beautiful new area for the community to enjoy. This project offers a chance to create a valuable asset for Miami, enhancing its resilience and appeal.”

The proposal will be presented to voters during the 2024 General Election on November 5, with Early Voting starting in October. The ballot question will ask voters to approve amendments to the City Charter, including the sale of 3.2 acres of leased property at fair market value, reduction of overall development, and authorization of the project with no cost to the city.