Smaller garage part of new schematic

Schematic designs for the Coconut Grove parking garage at the waterfront project were released and they appear much smaller than previously thought. The garage now accommodates 228 cars, not the 1167 previously calculated by Grove activists.

The plans reflect and enhance the guidelines outlined in the Master Plan.
The low-scale parking garage will reflect the existing architectural style and character of the surrounding area. The facility will feature 1-1/2 levels of parking and 40,000 sq. ft. of retail space. The retails space has been changed from "marine" to "general."

“We are proud of the design that has been developed and look forward to sharing it with the public,” said Arthur Noriega, Chief Executive Officer of Miami Parking Authority.

The garage will be built to consolidate parking in an efficient manner by reclaiming asphalt parking in favor of future green spaces. Other features will include landscaping, such as native shrubs, hedges, flower borders, ground cover, and/or trees as well as a rooftop trellis incorporating a wide array of green designs. The garage will also include ornamental and
sustainable features aimed at retaining the character of the surrounding areas as well as reducing the carbon footprint. 

The parking façade, interior, signage, lighting and landscaping will be designed to maximize human interaction.

Additionally, mirroring the current trends in walkable urbanism, the garage will seize the opportunity to integrate other transportation modalities, such as car- and bike share spaces, valet service and shared parking as well as pedestrian-friendly walkways providing connections to the surrounding waterfront and park.

“There is still a great deal of work ahead of us, but with our continued work with the community will result in a facility that will bring vibrancy, dynamism and vitality to the project, the central business district and the community at-large,” concluded Mr. Noriega.

If the project moves forward, construction is anticipated to start in 2014.

If you have passed by the Expo Center, you would have seen the work crews already taking it down.

Keep in mind about the parking garage that this is not part of the Waterfront Project being voted on in November. The garage is happening either way.