The Trump administration has rescinded a $60 million federal grant designated for "The Underdeck," a significant urban park project planned for downtown Miami. This funding cut, announced by former Miami Commissioner Ken Russell, impacts what was previously hailed as the largest federal grant in the City of Miami’s history. The project, intended to revitalize the area beneath and around the new Signature Bridge, now faces considerable uncertainty.
Underdeck Project Details
The Underdeck is a proposed 33-acre development designed to create a vibrant public space beneath and around Miami’s new Signature Bridge. The ambitious project aims to connect communities and provide recreational opportunities. Key features planned for The Underdeck include:
- A mile-long trail suitable for walking, jogging, biking, and scooting.
- A central Pedestrian Bridge.
- Multiple play and green areas.
- A water feature.
- A multi-purpose court.
- A dedicated dog park.
The total estimated cost for The Underdeck project is $83 million.
Grant Background and Defunding
The $60 million grant was awarded in March 2024 by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) under its Neighborhood Access and Equity program. This initiative is specifically designed to address and rectify historical inequities stemming from highway construction. The defunding of this grant by the Trump administration represents a significant setback for the project, raising questions about its future viability and the city’s ability to secure alternative funding.
Impact and Future Outlook
The withdrawal of federal funding poses a substantial challenge to The Underdeck’s development. The project, envisioned as a transformative addition to downtown Miami, relied heavily on this grant to cover a significant portion of its estimated $83 million cost. City officials and project proponents are now likely to explore alternative funding sources or re-evaluate the project’s scope and timeline in light of this development.