Miami Approves $3B Little River District: Largest Affordable Housing Development in County History
In a landmark move for Miami’s urban evolution, the Miami-Dade County Commission has officially approved the Little River District, a groundbreaking $3 billion development poised to reshape the fabric of the Little River and Little Haiti neighborhoods. Spearheaded by SG Holdings — a partnership between Swerdlow Group, SJM Partners, and Alben Duffie — the transformative 63-acre master plan will become the largest affordable housing initiative in Miami-Dade County history.
At the heart of this ambitious project are over 5,700 housing units, with a strong emphasis on affordability and accessibility. The plan includes:
2,284 affordable rental units (targeting 60% Area Median Income),
1,398 workforce rental units (up to 120% AMI),
2,048 workforce condominium units (eligible for subsidy at up to 140% AMI).
Crucially, the development guarantees current public housing residents the right to return to newly built homes within the district — without rent increases — ensuring existing communities aren’t displaced but rather uplifted.
A Vision for Equitable Urban Growth
The Little River District isn’t just about housing. It’s a mixed-use, transit-oriented community that will blend residential, retail, green space, and mobility infrastructure to support long-term economic and social growth.
Key highlights include:
370,000+ square feet of retail space, with tenants like Home Depot and BJ’s already signed on.
A major supermarket, gas station, food and beverage offerings, and essential neighborhood services.
250,000 square feet of green, open space including parks, shaded walking paths, and bike lanes.
A new Tri-Rail train station, backed by a $35 million private investment to boost connectivity and reduce congestion.
Designed by globally renowned firm Arquitectonica, the project embraces sustainable, pedestrian-friendly design and thoughtful urban planning.
Historic Public-Private Collaboration
The project reflects a strong collaboration between private and public sectors, including:
Miami-Dade County’s Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD)
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
City of Miami, with support from Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, County Commissioner Keon Hardemon, and City Commission Chairwoman Christine King.
“This approval is a major milestone in addressing Miami’s critical need for affordable and workforce housing,” said Michael Swerdlow, Founder and CEO of Swerdlow Group. “The Little River District will deliver a community that prioritizes quality housing, public transit, and local economic opportunity.”
Community Amenities and Long-Term Impact
Future residents of the Little River District can expect thoughtfully designed homes featuring:
In-unit washers and dryers, granite countertops, dishwashers, and central air.
Complimentary high-speed internet for three years.
Onsite management, security systems, fitness centers, swimming pools, computer labs, and dedicated recreation areas.
Beyond the residences, the project promises robust economic benefits:
3,840+ construction jobs and 518 permanent jobs.
Local hiring preferences, especially for low-income and public housing residents.
$9.5 billion in potential County revenue, the largest revenue-sharing agreement of its kind in Miami-Dade’s history.
Construction of the Little River District is slated to begin in 2026, with full buildout projected over an eight-year timeline. Once complete, this community-driven development will stand as a national model for inclusive urban revitalization, proving that equitable housing, thoughtful design, and economic development can go hand in hand.
