A significant $2 billion mixed-use development, known as Metropica, is poised to dramatically transform the landscape of Sunrise, Florida. The project aims to create a vibrant "downtown" for the city, offering a comprehensive lifestyle experience with residential, commercial, hospitality, and entertainment components.
Key Takeaways
- A $2 billion mixed-use development named Metropica is underway in Sunrise.
- The project aims to create a walkable "dream community" with residences, offices, hotels, retail, and entertainment.
- The development is strategically located between Sawgrass Mills and Amerant Bank Arena.
- A recent groundbreaking ceremony marked the commencement of development on the first 20 acres of the 50-acre site.
A Vision for a New Downtown
Metropica is envisioned as more than just a collection of buildings; it’s designed to be a self-sustaining community where residents can live, work, and play. Joseph Kavana, CEO of Metropica Development, described the project’s goal as creating a "special lifestyle where people can walk to the coffee shops and the restaurants and have it all there." This ambitious undertaking is set to feature 3,300 homes, four office towers, two hotels, high-end restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Progress and Future Development
While the 50-acre site may currently appear as an undeveloped parcel, significant progress is being made. One Metropica, a 28-story luxury condominium tower with 263 residences, has already been completed and opened in late 2020. The residences range in price from $600,000 to $2 million.
A recent groundbreaking ceremony celebrated the commencement of work on the initial 20 acres of the development. Over the next three years, this phase will see the construction of three residential towers offering over 1,000 apartments, one hotel, an office building, and more than 150,000 square feet of retail space. Underground infrastructure, including water and sewer pipes, landscaping, lighting, streets, and sidewalks, will be installed over the next 12 months before vertical construction begins.
A Milestone for Sunrise
Sunrise Mayor Mike Ryan lauded the project at the groundbreaking, emphasizing its significance for both Metropica and the city. He praised Kavana’s perseverance in bringing the vision to fruition. "Metropica is not just about buildings," Mayor Ryan stated. "Metropica is about people. It’s about walkability. It’s about a way of life. We’re going to be turning over more than dirt today. We’re turning a page in the history of Sunrise and, I would say, in the history of West Broward."
The strategic location of Metropica, situated between the popular Sawgrass Mills shopping destination and Amerant Bank Arena, is expected to draw significant foot traffic and further enhance its appeal as a vibrant hub.