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:
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2,284 affordable rental units (targeting 60% Area Median Income),
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1,398 workforce rental units (up to 120% AMI),
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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:
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370,000+ square feet of retail space, with tenants like Home Depot and BJ’s already signed on.
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A major supermarket, gas station, food and beverage offerings, and essential neighborhood services.
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250,000 square feet of green, open space including parks, shaded walking paths, and bike lanes.
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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:
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Miami-Dade County’s Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD)
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U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
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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:
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In-unit washers and dryers, granite countertops, dishwashers, and central air.
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Complimentary high-speed internet for three years.
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Onsite management, security systems, fitness centers, swimming pools, computer labs, and dedicated recreation areas.
Beyond the residences, the project promises robust economic benefits:
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3,840+ construction jobs and 518 permanent jobs.
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Local hiring preferences, especially for low-income and public housing residents.
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$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.