Construction Update for Miami Riverbridge in Downtown Miami
Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Miami’s Gencom, under the HRM Owner, LLC, have unveiled an ambitious plan that promises to redefine downtown Miami’s skyline. The proposal for the Miami Riverbridge development has been submitted to the City of Miami’s Urban Development Review Board, marking a significant step towards transforming a prime urban location.
The Miami Riverbridge project, designed by the renowned architectural firm Arquitectonica, is set to occupy the current site of the James L. Knight Center, the Miami Convention Center, the Miami Conference Center, and the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Located at 298, 300, 330, and 400 Southeast 2nd Avenue, this extensive development aims to create a cohesive mixed-use complex that spans approximately 4 acres along the north bank of the Miami River.
The proposed development features three interconnected towers with a shared podium, offering a blend of residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces:
1,342 Residential Units
264 Apartment-Hotel Units
615 Hotel Rooms
Convention and Meeting Spaces
100,000 Square Feet of Commercial Space
1,101 Parking Spaces and Amenities
The towers’ heights are noteworthy, with an 87-story supertall structure reaching 1,044 feet, a 62-story tower rising to 734 feet, and a 52-story tower standing at 636 feet.
A central element of the Miami Riverbridge project is the creation of a new public riverfront space. This includes a 50-foot setback along the Miami River to enhance the existing Riverwalk and improve connections with the Miami River Greenway. This design is aligned with the Miami Comprehensive Neighborhood Plan’s Port of Miami River Sub-Element, which aims to promote mixed-use development, activate the waterfront, and contribute to the city’s economic growth.
Given the project’s scale and complexity, Miami Riverbridge will be developed in phases. Importantly, no special approvals or waivers are being requested, as the project complies with Miami 21 zoning requirements. The developers are confident that Miami Riverbridge will significantly enhance downtown Miami, transforming an underutilized property into a vibrant mixed-use complex and regional hub.
The UDRB review for this proposal is scheduled for today. If approved, Miami Riverbridge will set a new standard for urban development in Miami, combining luxury living, commercial opportunities, and public amenities in a landmark waterfront location.
Miami Riverbridge and Tower Development Unveiled in Downtown Miami
Miami is set to witness the rise of an architectural marvel that promises to redefine its skyline. The developers behind the ambitious Miami Riverbridge project have recently unveiled plans for a groundbreaking development that is poised to transform downtown Miami. With the launch of a dedicated website and an engaging video presentation, the vision for the skybridge, part of a three-tower development, has been brought to light, capturing the imagination of residents and onlookers alike.
At the heart of this transformative project are three towering structures, one of which is designated as a supertall building. These modern edifices are set to replace the current Hyatt Regency in downtown Miami. The highlight of the project is the “spectacular” Skybridge that will link the two non-supertall towers. Suspended an awe-inspiring 700 feet above the ground, this Skybridge is not just a feat of engineering; it is a statement piece, a monumental gateway that will be visible from every direction.
The Skybridge is envisioned as more than a mere passageway. It is set to house a destination restaurant and lounge, offering unparalleled views of the city and a unique dining experience that floats above the urban landscape. This feature underscores the project’s commitment to blending functionality with luxury, providing spaces that are not only useful but also extraordinary.
The Miami Riverbridge project is ambitious in its scope, aiming to introduce 1,500 new rental apartments to the area. In addition to residential spaces, the development will feature a North American flagship Hyatt Regency hotel, boasting 615 rooms, and 264 Hyatt-branded serviced hotel rooms.
One might wonder why the inclusion of a supertall tower is integral to the project. The developers have addressed this curiosity in their FAQ, explaining that the towering height is strategic. It allows for the creation of more public space at the ground level, enhancing the urban environment and community accessibility. Furthermore, the elevated stature of the supertall tower ensures that apartment residents enjoy superior views, adding value to the residential experience.
Despite the capability to construct all three towers at the supertall height of 1,049 feet, a decision was made to vary the heights of the buildings. This choice reflects a thoughtful approach to urban design, aiming to create a visually appealing skyline that is both dynamic and harmonious.
The Miami Riverbridge project is a testament to the city’s forward-thinking and its embrace of innovative architectural endeavors. With its landmark Skybridge, diverse mix of residential and commercial spaces, and commitment to enhancing public areas, the project is set to become a cornerstone of Miami’s urban landscape.
Miami Riverbridge Development Approved
The lease between the City and the joint venture led by Hyatt and Gencom was unanimously authorized by the Miami City Commission with a vote of 5-0. This choice represents an important step forward for the ambitious Miami Riverbridge project at 400 Southeast 2nd Street, paving the way for the revitalization of Downtown Miami’s riverside area.
The agreed lease deal opens the door for joint initiatives between Hyatt and Gencom to improve accessibility, encourage walkability, and bring a variety of offerings to the bustling city. The joint venture may now go forward with finalizing the construction plans in close collaboration with the City thanks to this significant endorsement.
The Miami Riverbridge project has already had resounding public support, garnering an amazing 64% of voters’ approval in the November election. This broad acknowledgment of the project’s transformative potential emphasizes its significance to the local community and visitors alike, sparking excitement for Downtown Miami’s future.Riverbridge in Miami. Credit: Gencom and Hyatt.
Both Phil Keb and James Francque, speaking on behalf of Gencom and Hyatt respectively, acknowledged how grateful they were that the City Commission had approved the lease. They reaffirmed their steadfast dedication to bringing about a great development that satisfies the community’s ambitions while also making a major contribution to Miami’s economic development.
Now that the leasing arrangement is finalized, the Miami Riverbridge project can move forward, realizing the riverfront’s full potential and creating a vibrant urban environment. The joint venture’s goal is to accommodate the rising demand for homes, hotel rooms, and event venues while also bringing in a sizable sum of money for the City in the form of taxes, fees, and ground rent.
Three towers affording residents and hotel visitors sweeping views of Downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay are part of the site’s plans, which were created by Miami-based Arquitectonica. 682 multifamily apartments, a 615-room Hyatt Regency with more than 100,000 square feet of conference space, and 264 serviced apartments will be housed in Towers One and Two, which will rise 61 stories. A Skybridge with an upscale destination restaurant and lounge positioned 700 feet above the city will connect the towers at their highest point. Tower three will rise 1,049 feet in the air and contain 860 residential apartments, making it one of the tallest structures in South Florida.
Miami Riverbridge Project Receives Approval for Construction in Downtown Miami
On May 11, Miami commissioners voted overwhelmingly to accept the waivers required for the reconstruction of the Hyatt Regency in downtown Miami, Miami Riverbridge. This new supertall tower has also seen the release of new renderings.
Estimated to cost approximately $1.5 billion, the project calls for three new towers, two of 61 stories and one 95-story supertall, which would contain over 1,500 residential units, a new flagship 615-key Hyatt Regency hotel and 264 branded serviced apartments, 190,000 square feet of Class A meeting and events space, commercial and retail spaces, over 1,000 parking spaces and 50,000 square feet of open public space including a 480-foot-long rejuvenated riverwalk.
Arquitectonica is the architect of the Miami Riverbridge, which is being built by Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Gencom under the HRM Owner LLC.
The public benefits that the massive project would bring to the site and vicinity were underlined by Miami Riverbridge’s developers. Improvements to the streetscape for a better pedestrian experience and quicker access in and out of Miami’s urban core would relieve the congestion and traffic flow in this area of the city, which is frequently crowded and polluted by traffic.
The developers consented to give $25 million to help fund affordable housing in Miami. The project’s development would result in the creation of 4,500 jobs, with a rise in permanent employment from 350 to 900. Miami RiverBridge would bring in nearly $1.5 billion in city taxes, levies, and ground rent that could be used to expand public benefits throughout the city. Land leasing rent would rise from $250,000 to a minimum of $2,500,000, or 2.5% of gross receipts. A project park impact fee may also be used to pay for the renovation and reopening of the nearby Fort Dallas Park and the preservation of the nearby historic Flagler Worker’s House, which is located on city-owned property.
The convention center and the 40-year-old Hyatt Regency would be demolished to make room for the new complex if the proposal were to be accepted. By 2023’s end or the beginning of 2024, the developers hope to secure financing. The third tower is expected to be completed in Q3 2029, with the first two towers arriving by Q3 2028. Construction is anticipated to start in 2025.
