Miami Beach Approves Controversial Deauville Beach Resort Redevelopment

Miami Beach has officially sanctioned the redevelopment of the historic Deauville Beach Resort property, marking the conclusion of a lengthy and contentious process. This decision grants final approvals to the Meruelo family and developer David Martin, CEO of Terra, for a transformative project that aims to revitalize the iconic oceanfront site.

Background Information

The approvals were granted during a lengthy five-hour special meeting where Miami Beach commissioners deliberated not only on the Deauville project but also on a separate development proposal by Michael Stern in South Beach. Both projects received the green light.

Key Project Details

• Developers: Meruelo family and David Martin
• Location: 6701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
• Project Components:
  • Two luxury condos
  • A boutique hotel
• Architects: Foster + Partners, Shulman + Associates, ODP
• Site Size: 3.8 acres
• Previous Structure: The original Deauville hotel, designed by Melvin Grossman in 1957, was demolished in 2022.

David Martin made a significant investment in April 2024, acquiring a 25% stake in the property for $12.5 million, highlighting his commitment to overseeing the new development.

Approval Process

The Miami Beach commissioners voted 6-0 in favor of two amendments to the North Beach overlay district, along with a development agreement that resolves ongoing litigation between the city and property owners. Notably, Commissioner David Suarez abstained due to prior travel commitments but expressed strong reservations, citing concerns over the precedent set by approving this project.

Commissioner Concerns

Suarez voiced his discontent, stating that the approval is a "very dangerous precedent." He criticized the Meruelo family, noting that they accumulated over $6 million in fines due to neglected upkeep of the Deauville resort, leading to its demolition.

“David [Martin], this is no fault to you, right? You’re the face of it now, and the Meruelos are not here, but they have been probably the most egregious landowners in Miami Beach," Suarez remarked, expressing distress over the situation.

Project Specifications

The newly approved development will significantly increase the height of structures on the site.

• Original Deauville Height: 185 feet (17 stories)
• New Project Height: 300 feet

Along with the taller structures, a partial reconstruction of the Deauville will occur, aiming to honor the historical significance of the original site.

Community Benefits

While some officials expressed skepticism about the developers’ track record, others like Commissioner Joe Magazine emphasized the positive community outcomes:

“While it seems like pretty bad stakeholders are going to benefit here, it doesn’t outweigh that the community I represent is going to benefit from projects like this."

Agreement Highlights

The development agreement includes several community-oriented provisions:

• Public access to the lobby
• Walkways for public beach access
• $7.5 million allocated for the Byron Carlisle housing project
• Design and establishment of a pocket park
• Infrastructure funding to support local improvements

Previous Development Efforts

Notably, billionaire developer Steve Ross attempted to redevelop the site in 2022 with a Frank Gehry-designed plan but failed to garner enough community support in a referendum. Ross’s proposal did not include a reconstruction of the historic Deauville structure, differing significantly from the current plans.

Conclusion

The redevelopment of the Deauville Beach Resort property represents a significant step in Miami Beach’s urban landscape, blending luxury and community needs. The approval process has sparked varied opinions among local officials, with ongoing discussions about the implications of such developments for the community.

For further updates and information on Miami Beach developments, you can explore related articles from reputable sources such as The Real Deal.

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