I. Projects
A. Update of NW 5th Street Bridge Replacement Project - Mr. Brett Bibeau, MRC Managing Director, noted representatives of The Florida Department of Transportation had e-mailed MRC staff on December 1, 2008, requesting to be placed on an upcoming MRC agenda to make a presentation to the MRC regarding an update of the commenced NW 5th Street Bridge Replacement project, and Mr. Bibeau stated he had explained to the project’s construction manager Mr. Hector Rodriguez, FDOT, and Public Information Officer, Janette Lazo, that as part of MRC’s standard operating procedure, the Chair of the respective subcommittee firstly reviews projects/presentations before forwarding a non-binding recommendation to the MRC.  Therefore, Mr. Bibeau stated MRC staff had invited FDOT to present an update of the 5 ST replacement project at today’s UIWG meeting and subsequent February 2 MRC meeting. However, Mr. Bibeau noted that following last week’s public notice of today’s UIWG meeting, FDOT had notified MRC staff that they didn’t feel adequately prepared to make a presentation at this time. Ms. Ashley Chase, MRC Assistant Managing Director, noted she had invited Mr. Rodriguez, Ms. Jeanette Lazo, FDOT Public Information Officer, Mr. Jose Gonzalez, City of Miami Assistant Transportation Coordinator, and Miami-Dade County Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM) representatives to next month’s UIWG meeting on Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 10 am, Robert King High New Board Room, 1407 NW 7 Street, so that the UIWG can obtain a detailed overview of the ongoing project from each respective organization, i.e. project timeline, bridge and greenway design and construction, turbidity, etc. Mr. Bibeau noted staff would also extend an invitation to Mr. Jose Barrera, FDOT, whom will be managing/designing a section of FDOT’s portion of the Miami River Greenway at and adjacent to the 5th Street Bridge.

Mr. Charlie Hand, a Seybold Canal homeowner nearby the NW 5 ST bridge replacement project stated he would like to make a comment regarding the NW 5 St Bridge replacement project.  UIWG Chair Murley stated the item will be considered after presentation by the FDOT, which has been invited to attend the aforementioned UIWG’s Feb. 11 meeting, yet the MRC and its subcommittees always entertains comments from the public attending publicly noticed MRC meetings.  Mr. Hand stated the NW 5 ST Bridge has been negatively impacting the residents of Spring Garden and Seybold Canal in numerous ways:

• Reduction of water depth in the Seybold Canal: According to Mr. Hand, FDOT has been pumping water, carrying sediment through the storm drains and into the Seybold Canal in the vicinity of the NW 7 St/ Humpback Bridge. Mr. Hand noted that a vacuum truck has shown up periodically to suck up the silt and sediment that has built up in the storm drain at the bridge and in Seybold Canal.  Mr. Hand explained the silt and sediment deposited in this area has become a navigational hazard, adversely affecting the livelihood of commercial fishermen as they are only able to pass through the canal at certain times each day. Mr. Hand indicated that during a recent low tide day, the canal had become absolutely dry at its center, 50 yards south of the bridge. Mr. Hand added that his neighbor had recently informed him that he has missed eight days of fishing due to this situation, and most boats have suffered some type of damage.
• Noise Pollution: According to Mr. Hand, the contractor’s begin pile driving and moving heavy equipment-such as dump trucks, bulldozers and large diesel pumps- at 7 am and sometimes through the night, which is completely disruptive to the neighborhood. Mr. Hand stated he believed this activity is in violation of the City’s current noise ordinance. Mr. Robert Weinreb, City of Miami, suggested that Mr. Hand share his concerns with the District City Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones, via email and copy him in the correspondence

Mr. Bibeau noted he had forwarded the following December 13, 2008 email and photographs from Mr. Orin Black, a Miami River shipping terminal owner, to Ms. Lazo and Mr. Rodriguez, FDOT, regarding turbidity control measures at the NW 5th Street Bridge: “The FDOT needs to take issue with the turbidity control measures being employed by the subcontractors on the 5th Street Bridge project.  Right now, plumes can be seen some 300 ft downstream because the curtains being used are too shallow and don't encompass the entire area.  We have taken issue with this several times.  We want to see the bridge completed, but not with our docks left several feet shallower from the silt.  Please request that the FDOT PM address this issue.” Mr. Bibeau stated he had personally witnessed the referenced turbidity issue during a recent boat tour with the U.S. Coast Guard, and asked UIWG Chair Murley how best to proceed in regards to this matter. UIWG Chair Murley directed Mr. Bibeau to schedule a site visit with DERM and FDOT representatives ASAP, and invite them to the upcoming February 11 UIWG meeting and March 2 MRC meeting. Should FDOT choose not to attend the site visit or UIWG meeting, UIWG Chair Murley recommended MRC Chair Eric Buermann write FDOT Secretary Gus Pego to respectfully recommend FDOT schedule their requested update regarding the ongoing NW 5 ST Bridge replacement project at the upcoming publicly noticed UIWG and MRC meetings, and forward the project complaints submitted to the MRC from adjacent residents and business owners.

B. Discussion of Potentially Creating a Community Garden to Grow Food - Ms. Sallye Jude led a discussion regarding the potential concept of creating a Community Garden on the Miami River where the public could grow and harvest food free of charge. The UIWG discussed possible locations for this opportunity, including but not limited to a portion of the riverfront Sewell Park or a portion of the vacant Royal Atlantic / Rio Miami development site, located in the East Little Havana Empowerment Zone along NW 7th Street just east of the NW 12 Ave Bridge.

UIWG attendees welcomed Dr. Marvin Dunn, “Roots in the City,” whom provided an overview of the Community Gardens located in Overtown:

• Essentials to create a Community Garden: land (preferably public), a committed source of water, soil, labor (5 part-time, 2 full-time staff used in Overtown), volunteers, etc.
• First garden is located at NW 3rd Avenue and 14th Street; started 15 years ago as a botanical garden for aesthetic reasons, with help from FIU students; then, hired people from the community to oversee / maintain garden
• Second garden is a three-acre vegetable garden located at NW 3rd Avenue and 9th Street, which was created two years ago to provide free food to the community (i.e. collard greens, cabbage, etc.)
• Has reached out to Winn Dixie to potentially begin selling Georgia collard greens grown in the garden, in order to become self-sustaining; currently accept donations
• Garden is not fenced, allowing people to come in and take whatever food needed
• Now trying to expand/beautify garden to six acres
• Business model could work along the river if liability is waived and funding is obtained

Vice Chair Phil Everingham asked how he obtained the “start-up cash” for this project, and Dr. Dunn replied that FIU had supported it for five years, followed by City funding, and currently a CRA grant for all sites, and created “Roots in the City,” a private non-profit corporation.  Mr. Bibeau noted per MRC member Jude’s suggestion, MRC staff is seeking information regarding creation and maintenance of a potential community garden along the Miami River, and therefore thanked Dr. Dunn for sharing his experiences in making a community garden currently operating in Overtown.  Dr. Dunn expressed his support for establishing a community garden along the river and offered his assistance in this future effort. Dr. Dunn stated he would also be willing to help the MRC broach the subject with city officials should the MRC decide to recommend and or create a community garden.

III. New Business – The following items were addressed/discussed:

1. Mr. Bibeau referenced a forwarded email from the FDOT District 3 Secretary, whom has requested that the Port of Port St. Joe be designated a Planned Emergency SIS Facility. UIWG Chair Murley stated he would follow-up with FDOT regarding the possibility of designated the Port of Miami River as an SIS facility, which would make it eligible to receive federal funding for transportation initiatives
2. Mr. Bibeau distributed copies of the “United States Conference of Mayors Mainstreet Economic Recovery Survey” economic stimulus federal funding line item requests regarding UIWG related Miami River projects, including but not limited to, “Lummus Park Historic Building Restroom, Remodel Existing Historic Building to new use with new AC and electrical system - $225,770 and  Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) devices on Bridges over the Miami River - $2,000,000”, thankfully submitted by the Honorable Mayor Diaz. UIWG Chair Murley explained that potential federal economic stimulus funding will not list specific projects, rather be awarded in a lump sum per each project category such as Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) section, and paid out consistent with program guidelines. UIWG Chair Murley recommended MRC Chair Eric Buermann write to the Dade Congressional Delegation, Mayor Manny Diaz and Mayor Carlos Alvarez, thanking them for their support and offering the MRC’s assistance to meet the needs of Miami River-related projects.
3. Ms. Jude noted it was her understanding that the “Miami River Inn” which she owns would be considered a “legal non-conforming use” under the new proposed draft Miami 21 zoning designation, since the Inn meets the draft definition of “hotel” based on number of units, and the current “Hotel” use is not allowed by right in the proposed T4-R designation for the parcel in the draft Miami 21.  UIWG Chair Murley indicated there were several existing businesses, some of which are owned by MRC members, including but not limited to commercial fishing and restaurants, which under the draft Miami 21 may become a legal non-confirming use (allowed for 20 years) and or a “legal non-conforming structure” (allowed until more than 50% is changed).  UIWG Chair Murley noted the revised draft Miami 21 was recently presented to the MRC whom updated their advisory recommendation; therefore he didn’t want to schedule individual UIWG agenda items for the various parcels which may become legal non-confirming uses, and or, legal non confirming structures under the current draft Miami 21.  UIWG Chair Murley recommended property owners, such as Ms. Jude, contact the City’s Planning Department and elected officials prior to the first reading of Miami 21 potentially on January 29. 

The meeting adjourned.

I. Projects

A. NW 5th Street Bascule Bridge Construction Project Presentation & Current Status - UIWG
Chair Jim Murley welcomed representatives of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and applauded their ongoing efforts to improve the Miami River’s urban infrastructure.  Mr. Brett Bibeau, MRC Managing Director, echoed that positive sentiment and cited the MRC’s distributed 2008 Annual Report, which contains a section regarding the Miami River’s bridges: “The Miami River Commission is thankful to the Florida Department of Transportation for its heroic, and often unheralded, work on improving the infrastructure of the roads and bridges along the Miami River…”

UIWG Chair Murley introduced Mr. Hector Rodriguez, FDOT, whom presented a PowerPoint regarding the status of the $59 million, from $40.9 million as stated on 7/10/06, state funded NW 5th Street Bridge Replacement Project, estimated to be completed in February 2010.

Mr. Perez deferred to Mr. Michael Graham of Kiewit Southern, the contractors of the project. Mr. Graham presented aerial photographs of the subject area, and noted he is available to address any questions regarding construction.

• Will work on pier construction next week
• Ongoing roadway work; just started demolishing road on south side
• Reviewed detours
• Will maintain access to businesses at all times
• two 72-hour river closures one in July 2009 (south tow lift) and the second in August 2009 (north tow-lift)
• two ½ river closures will be scheduled as well and coordinated with USCG and Miami River marine industrial businesses

Mr. Perez noted he had met with Sherwin Williams to discuss the project, as they are the most impacted business on North River Drive, as a 3 foot retainer wall will eliminate their front parking spaces which were partially on the sidewalks public right of way.  Mr. Rodriguez stated he wished to clarify that though an aggressive work schedule is being implemented; there are factors that may impact the project timeline/anticipated completion date.

Mr. Evan Skornick, South Florida Water Management District, stated during a recent site visit, he had noticed dewatering occurring on the north side, and a pipe emptying directly into the sanitary sewer line. Mr. Graham explained that the pipe locator located/color-coated the wrong manhole and the 60-foot pipe that had been laid down was temporarily dewatering into the drainage system.  Mr. Graham noted this has since been addressed. Mr. Robert Karafel, SFWMD, asked where the water is transferred during the dewatering process, and Mr. Graham replied via a pipe which runs underneath the area’s businesses, from 5th Street to the outfalls of the river; Mr. Karafel asked if turbidity samples are being obtained, and Ms. Lillian Costa noted that samples are taken twice daily and the results are kept in the FDOT field office. Mr. Karafel noted he did not witness any turbidity in the river during his recent helicopter tour, although turbidity was present in the Seybold Canal and the source was not determined.

Mr. Bibeau explained the MRC has received complaints regarding turbidity resulting in reduction in depth of Seybold Canal and the Miami River, vacuuming sediement out of Seybold Canal, noise and street closures from adjacent residents and business owners, via e-mails and statements at several publicly noticed MRC subcommittee meetings (Stormwater 1/7/09 and Urban Infill 1/16/09).  Mr. Bibeau noted that, per the directive of UIWG Chair Murley during the UIWG’s January publicly noticed meeting, he had attended a site visit with FDOT, DERM and adjacent property owners, in an attempt to address these concerns and obtain more information regarding the project.  At the meeting, Mr. Bibeau noted that residents and business owners expressed they witnessed significant amounts of sediment from the replacement project entering Seybold Canal and Miami River, followed by the arrival of vacuum trucks parking on the Humpback Bridge and then sucking sediment out of the Seybold Canal.  FDOT had admitted to having three vacuum trucks conduct this operation only between the outfall and turbidity curtains in Seybold Canal; FDOT had claimed to have a de-watering permit, allowing them to make French drains on adjacent NW 7 Ave and then the dewatering system would treat and remove sediment prior to pumping it through two inlets which have two outfalls on the NE and SE sides of the Humpback bridge on the Seybold Canal; FDOT claimed the culverts were 75% full of sediments and the treated “clean” water they entered into the culverts while dewatering the deep French drain holes on NW 7 AVE forced the sediments into the canal.  Mr. Bibeau stated Luis Fernandez, DERM Coastal Resources Section, had told FDOT representatives during a recent meeting at the FDOT Construction Office that a Corrective Action Plan permit was needed to handle and dispose of the sediment, which DERM reported has a history of dioxins; Mr. Bibeau stated Mr. Fernandez had also indicated at this meeting that they had previously issued an “Inspection Notice” and a “Field Notice of Violation and Orders to Cease and Desist” after inspections of the project. Mr. Bibeau stated Mr. Lee Hefty, DERM Assistant Director, had confirmed the aforementioned information during the Miami River Commission February 2 meeting (Agenda Item V. D), in which he stated, “DERM issued a cease and desist order on the FDOT contractor’s methods to remove, transport and dispose of sediment from the Seybold Canal which raises concerns regarding disposition of the sediments, and suggested that the MRC contact DERM’s pollution and remediation section to obtain additional information.”  Mr. Bibeau noted Mr. Fernandez had explained that the first notice was due to the turbidity curtains not being set up properly therefore the sediment was not being caught between the aforementioned outfalls and the curtain, therefore the first notice ordered the curtains to be set up correctly and a second turbidity curtain was ordered to be installed.  DERM inspected the site again a month later and issued a second Notice because the ordered 2nd turbidity curtain had not been installed.  Since then it was installed.  Mr. Bibeau asked if a CAP permit had to be issued for work performed in the past, and DERM indicated they would look into this.  Mr. Bibeau stated he had requested a copy of the DERM Class 5 Permit and 2 Notices for the project, but has yet to receive them. Mr. Bibeau noted Mr. Fernandez, DERM, had told FDOT during aforementioned site visit with Mr. Bibeau to cease and desist contractor’s methods to remove, transport and dispose of sediment from the Seybold Canal and Mr. Lee Hefty, DERM, reiterated this at the recent MRC meeting, yet Mr. Rodriguez stated FDOT has not received a written cease and desist order. Ms. Costa stated FDOT had been issued at Class 5 dewatering permit from DERM, and continues to remove sediments according to the guidelines outlined in their obtained permits. Ms. Costa confirmed that, to her knowledge, FDOT had not been issued a cease and desist order from DERM on the transportation and disposal of the sediments removed from Seybold Canal. Mr. Skornick asked if the Class 5 permit requires turbidity testing, and Mr. Costa replied yes, in addition to sediment removal, handling and disposal.  Mr. Bibeau noted the MRC’s Stormwater Subcommittee had recently discussed requesting a bathometric surveys be conducted by FDOT in the Seybold Canal and Miami River to compare water depths with the provided July 2008 bathometric surveys.  Mr. Rodriguez requested additional survey data and Mr. Bibeau replied MRC staff had already provided the only 2 sets of survey data available to the MRC.  UIWG Chair Murley suggested that FDOT touch base with DERM in order to achieve consistency prior to the MRC March 2 meeting. Mr. Skornick and FDOT noted that the lowered water levels in Seybold Canal may be attributed to dry conditions and full moon creating extremely low tides.  Mr. Bibeau noted a portion of the shoreline on the NW (Little Havana) side had large invasive Brazilian pepper removed from the shoreline, leaving an unconsolidated shoreline with large pieces of concrete in jeopardy of falling into the River.  Mr. Bibeau noted during the site visit there was no turbidity curtain in front of this area, but since then a curtain has been installed, and asked if this part of the project’s shoreline would have a seawall or rip rap.  Mr. Rodriguez stated he would look into it and provide the answer in the future.  Mr. Rodriguez stated the downtown side beneath the bridge with the planned riverwalk is approximately 16’ wide and 8’ tall, while the Little Havana side will be approximately 15’ wide and 7-9’ tall, yet no public right of way to be able to access the potential riverwalk area beneath the bridge and behind the bascule piers.   

UIWG Chair Murley noted this item will be presented during the MRC March 2 meeting, which will be held at noon, Robert King High New Board Room, 1407 NW 7 Street and thanked FDOT for their presentation.

B. Presentation of Separate Future Funded Contract to Develop a Portion of the Miami River Greenway Beneath and Adjacent to the NW the 5th Street Bridge - Mr. Bibeau noted Mr. Jose Barrera, FDOT, had been invited to today’s meeting. Mr. Rodriguez provided an overview of the greenway beneath and adjacent to the NW 5th Street Bridge, while Mr. Perez distributed greenway specs/design plans. Mr. Rodriguez stated an integrated colored 8-foot sidewalk, landscaping and lighting will be provided along both shores of the river; the north shore’s publicly accessible riverwalk would proceed as an on-road greenway heading south along NW 7 Ave from the Humpback Bridge, turn south east beneath the new NW 5 ST Bridge behind the bascule structures and proceed east along the river’s north shore, reconnecting with North River Drive; explained the south shore’s publicly accessible greenway will proceed north-west as an on-road greenway along South River Drive, turn north-east and proceed over the Bridge parallel – similarly would be on South River Drive on the NW side of bridge and proceed over the Bridge - Mr. Rodriguez explained FDOT is making room beneath the bridge on the Little Havana side for the City to construct a riverwalk, yet there may not be public right of way to access the area from South River Drive. Mr. Rodriguez stated FDOT remains in close communication with Mr. Jose Gonzalez and Mr. Hector Badia, City of Miami, in regards to this greenway segment. Mr. Bibeau noted he and Mr. Badia had difficulty determining the greenway dimensions illustrated in the design plans.

Mr. Bibeau noted House Bill line item 1089 and 3917 allocated $1.6 million and $1 million, respectively, for the 5th Street Miami River Greenway, yet for some unknown reason, FDOT is transferring only $877,000 to the City. Mr. Bibeau asked for the status of the remaining money. UIWG Chair Murley suggested that the MRC’s Greenways Subcommittee address this matter at their meeting later today, and thanked FDOT for their participation.

C. Discussion of Partnering to Create Potential New Riverfront Green Spaces &   Community Gardens on Private and/or Publicly-owned Property – Mr. Bibeau noted the owners of Royal Atlantic approved MUSP had expressed an interest in possibly partnering with the City and MRC to create a temporary community garden/green space at their site. Per the directive of the MRC, Mr. Bibeau noted staff continues to research partnership opportunities and distributed a list of potential privately-owned, vacant sites along the Miami River.

II. Presentations

A. Discussion of Proposed Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Miami by Potentially Amending Article 9, Section 908.9, Waterfront Yards- MRC staff distributed copies of the proposed amendments to the zoning code regarding waterfront building setbacks and noted this item was presented to the Planning Advisory Board last month and deferred to March.  The track changed amendment includes in part, “Waterfront yard areas. A minimum yard area averaging 20 feet of 15 feet in depth shall be provided along any waterfront. In no instance shall the above yard area be less than fifteen (15) feet in depth.”

MRC staff distributed the city charter section regarding waterfront building setbacks, voted on and approved by the public at referendum, which states:
“From Subpart A - The Charter- Section 3 Powers
mm)   Building and zoning:   
(ii)   In order to preserve the city's natural scenic beauty, to guarantee open spaces, and to protect the waterfront, anything in this Charter or the ordinances of the city to the contrary notwithstanding, neither the city nor any of its agencies shall issue building permits for any surface parking or enclosed structures located on Biscayne Bay or the Miami River from its mouth to the N.W. 5th Street Bridge,
(A)   which are not set back at least 50 feet from the seawall (where the depth of the lot is less than 200 feet, the setback shall be at least 25 percent of the lot depth), and
(B)   which do not have average side yards equal in aggregate to at least 25 percent of the water frontage of each lot based on average lot width.
(iii)   The above setback and side-yard requirements may be modified by the city commission after design and site-plan review and public hearing only if the city commission determines that the modifications requested provide public benefits such as direct public access, public walkways, plaza dedications, covered parking up to the floodplain level, or comparable benefits which promote a better urban environment and public advantages, or which preserve natural features. Wherever setback, side-yard, or site-plan review requirements of zoning ordinances are greater than the foregoing requirements, such greater requirements shall govern.
(iv)   These requirements shall not apply to docks and appurtenant structures, single-family residences and appurtenant structures, and waterfront industrial uses along the Miami River and at the Port of Miami. Nothing herein contained shall in any manner affect or apply to: the City of Miami/University of Miami James L. Knight International Center and hotel facility, including all improvements thereon, or to lands and projects which the city commission has approved prior to September 18, 1979, by development order pursuant to F.S. ch. 380 of a planned area development pursuant to article XXI-1, City of Miami Comprehensive Zoning ordinance or which have received site and development plan approval, including Plaza Venetia, Phase II, Resolution No. 72-113, April 20, 1972; Resolution No. 72-114, April 20, 1972; and Resolution No. 72-416, July 20, 1972.”

MRC staff distributed an October 6, 2008 memo from the Office of the City Attorney regarding waterfront building setbacks.

UIWG Chair Murley stated it has been the advisory position of the MRC to uphold the guidelines of the City Charter waterfront building setback, and extend its applicable area to the entire Miami River, not only east of the 5 ST Bridge.

B. Discussion of Proposed Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Miami by Potentially Amending Article 9, Section 907 - MRC staff distributed copies of the proposed amendments and noted this item was presented to the Planning Advisory Board last month and was deferred to March. Mr. Bibeau noted the proposed zoning code amendments would require a Class I Special Permit for applications of “special yards.” According to the definition, a special yard is “a yard other than adjacent to a street, required to perform the same functions as a side or rear yard, but adjacent to a lot line so placed or oriented that neither the term “side yard” nor the term “rear yard,” as generally determined, defined or applied with respect to regular lots, fits the circumstances of the case.” Mr. Bibeau noted that on riverfront parcels the “rear yard” is the waterfront yard for which MRC is aware of building setbacks, etc. in current zoning code and draft Miami 21, yet if the riverfront “rear yard” is redefined as a “Special Yard” he is unaware what implications, i.e. waterfront building setbacks, the zoning code would apply under “Special Yard”.

C. Discussion of Draft Comprehensive Plan Amendments Regarding Miami 21- MRC staff distributed copies of the draft ordinance amending the Miami Comprehensive Neighborhood Plan in order to implement the draft Miami 21 code.  UIWG Chair Murley noted the proposed amendments only apply to the draft Miami 21 of which MRC already has an advisory recommendation, therefore not necessary for MRC to formulate another advisory recommendation regarding the aforementioned draft amendments to the Comp. Plan.

D. Update on Implementation of the DDA's Downtown Master Plan- This item was deferred to next month’s meeting.

III. New Business – MRC staff presented a copy of the revised draft Miami 21, which was recently posted on the City of Miami website.  UIWG Chair Murley compared the MRC’s following conditions formulated by the MRC at their January 5 meeting, and compared them with the current revised draft:
1) Inserting caveat in “Appendix B: Waterfront Design Guidelines, Policy 6: “Access from the water to the land should be incorporated/provided in waterfront designs-where permissible and practical-subject to obtaining required permits from applicable agencies.” – revised draft Miami 21 inserted, “Boat access from the water to the land is encouraged”
2) Inserting “minimum” in front of “15 foot wide” in Appendix B: Waterfront Guidelines, B.3 Circulation Zone to make the text consistent with the proposed fifteen-sixteen foot wide circulation zone depicted in the related rendition and first line of descriptive text – verbatim recommendation provided as revised draft Miami 21 inserts “minimum”
3) Maintain current MRC recommendation to measure waterfront building setbacks from the shoreline, rather than the property boundary, which varies in distance from the actual shoreline - recommendation provided as revised draft Miami 21 inserts “measured from the mean high water line”
4) Inserting “federal law” in Section 2.2.2 after “vary with the applicable requirements of any” - revised draft Miami 21 inserted “law”
5)“Maintain current MRC recommended language for the definition of Marine Related Industrial Establishment by inserting, “including but not limited to shipping, boatyards, marinas commercial fishing, container yards and tug boat basins” and also insert “cargo, boat building and boat manufacturing”  - although definition remains the same and additional MRC recommended text not included, the existing definition states, “A facility conducting activities associated with the construction, repair, and operation, storage, loading and unloading of boats, and other activities the primary purpose of which is to facilitate the maritime industry.  All work on vessels which exceed 8 feet in width; all vessel paint and body work; and major engine work or overhaul, shall be considered marine-related industrial activity.”

UIWG Chair Murley suggested all of the MRC’s conditions have been affirmatively met in the revised draft Miami 21, therefore the MRC’s advisory recommendation on the current draft should become unconditional recommendation that the current draft Miami 21 is consistent with the Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan and the Miami River Greenway action Plan.  UIWG Chair Murley stated he would include this update in his March 2 update to the full MRC.

I. Projects
A. Discussion of Partnering to Create Potential New Riverfront Green Spaces & Community Gardens on Private and/or Publicly-owned Property - MRC staff distributed the following documents:

• “Vacant River Parcels for Consideration to Become Potential Public Green Spaces and or Community Gardens” (lists addresses and folio # of 22 parcels and estimated quantities of dirt and sod needed to cover the sites)
• “Macarthur Award Winning Urban Gardener Will Allen” free public hearing invitation Tuesday, March 17, 8 am, Temple Israel of Greater Miami; Ms. Ashley Chase, MRC Assistant Managing Director, is attending this meeting on behalf of the MRC
• Proposal of Mr. John Rogers, Grow Your Own Miami, to create a community garden
• “West Grove Community Garden Taking Root”, Miami Herald 3/6/09
• “The Mural King”, New Times, 2/25/09
• Aerial with preliminary landscape plans for public riverfront green space and community garden at 1001 NW 7 ST

Mr. Brett Bibeau, MRC Managing Director, stated several years ago the City of Miami approved a MUSP for Royal Atlantic (renamed Rio Miami), which remains vacant on the south shore of the Miami River at 1001 NW 7 ST.  Mr. Bibeau added this site was the former Miami News Building until it was demolished in 2002 after the potential developers of Rio Miami received a MUSP to allow the construction of a mixed-use development.  Mr. Bibeau noted he has exchanged positive emails with Rio Miami’s attorney, Mr. Don Dirac, regarding the possibility of creating a temporary new publicly accessible riverfront park and/or community garden at the currently vacant Rio Miami site, until the developers are ready to break ground on the project. Mr. Bibeau stated Mr. Darrach has a copy of a proposed legal structure / agreement known as the proposed Tabor Hollow public park space at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive. Mr. Bibeau explained the proposed resolution, which has yet to be approved by City Commissioners, authorizes a license agreement in which the owner of that property, (Mr. Hollow) would lease the property to the City for a minimum 4 years at only $1 per year, in exchange for a time extension of the owner’s approved Major Use Special Permit (MUSP) for the currently vacant and unimproved site.  Mr. Bibeau added that under this agreement, the City would accept liability and maintenance of these two acres of waterfront land as a passive, public park for four years, and the developer would provide up to $50,000 towards the site improvements such as grass and pathways. Mr. Bibeau stated the MRC has significant volunteers on April 24 and 25, yet the developers of Rio Miami had indicated that they hoped a modified agreement (no cash cost share for site improvements from owners, owners provide current level of support for insurance, 4 year agreement maybe terminated by owner after one year) between them and the City may be executed by the end of this calendar year.  MRC staff distributed a draft site plan, which includes a proposed community garden in the western portion of the site, and proposed site improvements (i.e. trees) in the eastern portion.

MRC staff distributed a list of vacant and unimproved Miami River sites, with associated addresses and folio numbers, for the City to consider negotiating creation of potential passive public parks and/or community garden in order to benefit the public and beautify the Miami River Greenway. MRC staff distributed site specs of preliminary calculations (i.e. square footage) to determine how much top soil, sod and trees, etc. are needed at each proposed site. Mr. Bibeau noted there is currently a group that is encouraging the re-establishment of the Whitehouse’s historic vegetable garden.

Mr. Bibeau noted the MRC is co-sponsoring/co-hosting the following Miami River Greenway volunteer beautification events:

• Friday, April 24: 80 City Year volunteers will create a pocket park on the NE side of Flagler Bridge (on FDOT public right-of-way where the bridge tender parks) and beautify the city-owned Miami River Greenway along North River Drive, from I-95 to 6th Avenue; Mr. Bibeau distributed a “before” and proposed “after” picture of the planned new riverfront pocket park site
• Saturday, April 25: 150 Hands on Miami volunteers will beautify the city-owned Miami River Greenway along South River Drive, from 2nd Avenue to NW 1st Street, as a part of Global Youth Service Day; Mr. Bibeau noted there is an area in Jose Marti Park, beneath I-95, which has a river walk, but is surrounded by gravel and no landscaping. Mr. Bibeau he has been in communication with Mr. Ralph Gonzalez, City of Miami Parks Department, regarding the possibility of the City removing the top six inches of the existing rock in order for the MRC to provide professionals to deliver and spread trucks of dirt to cover the area 6’ deep and deliver pallets of sod and trees for the volunteers to plant on April 25.
• Mr. Bibeau noted hundreds of volunteers have also been secured for Greenway beautification events in May and October

Mr. Bibeau distributed an article/picture of local Haitian muralist Serge Touissant and noted he would like to reach out to him to discuss potentially creating mural(s) along the Miami River Greenway.  UIWG Chair Murley agreed.

Mr. Bibeau distributed the following materials:

• PowerPoint of existing conditions of some of the potential Miami River sites to create a community garden and/or public green space
• Rio Miami (MUSP), 1001 NW 7 ST
• Riverfront East (Riverfront “Cima” parcel of MUSP): north shore, immediately west of the South Miami Avenue Bridge (24 SW 4th Street)
• Vacant site of approved Reflections development: south shore, immediately west of 2nd Avenue; Mr. Bibeau noted that FIND provides grants to purchase waterfront properties, and perhaps this site could serve as an extension to Jose Marti Park which is across 3rd Ave, consistent with the unused 2003 GOB significant funding line item for expansion of Jose Marti Park; Mr. Robert Weinreb, City of Miami, recommended setting up a meeting with FIND, the City and the Reflections owner to discuss this possibility
• East Coast Fisheries: Mr. Weinreb suggested contacting the foreclosure bank to see if they’d be interested in selling the property, as well as Ms. Cynthia Guerra of EEL (Environmental Endangered Land) to seek additional funding sources to potentially purchase riverfront parcels to become public green spaces and or community gardens
• Millennium site: south shore, between Metro Mover and South Miami Avenue; Mr. Bibeau noted this site doesn’t have a previously approved plan for which groundbreaking needs a time extension, rather is considering submitting a plan for permitting which contains a mixed use development featuring a publicly accessible riverwalk and dry stack boat storage.  Mr. Bibeau noted if permitted, the project would therefore not be ready for construction for at least a couple years.  Mr. Bibeau asked if Mr. Weinreb could forward the Miami River Greenway Action Plan recommendation to add an 8-foot-wide on-road greenway along new SE 5th Street

Mr. Bibeau noted that per the direction of the MRC, staff continues to explore any and all sites/opportunities to establish community gardens and/or public green spaces. Mr. Bibeau noted Dr. Marvin Dunn, “Roots in the City,” previously provided the UIWG and MRC an overview of the Community Gardens located in Overtown.  UIWG Chair Murley urged Mr. Bibeau to look into public sites such as the planned April 24 FDOT riverfront pocket park creation and April 25 improvements to make a new greenspace along the riverwalk in Jose Marti Park.  UIWG Chairman Murley reinforced the fact that these potential temporary License Agreements and or site purchases would not be directly with the MRC, which is simply providing information, advocacy and coordination to explore these potential opportunities as directed by the MRC.  

II. Presentations
A. Update on Implementation of the DDA's Downtown Master Plan- Per the request of Mr. Spencer Crowley, this item was deferred to next month’s meeting.

B. Update on “Miami Intermodal Center (MIC) Associated Development Area” Between the MIC/TriRail and Miami River – MRC staff re-distributed the February 10, 2007 “Creation of an ‘Upper River Area Plan’ Followed by Miami Intermodal Center (MIC) Associated Development Specifications and Guidelines” one page summary of this Miami River Corridor Urban Infill Plan recommendation and area map.  UIWG Chair Murley reported Mr. Subrata Basu, Director of Miami-Dade County Planning and Zoning, had recently indicated that the County Manager had launched an internal study (data and analysis) of the area surrounding the airport.  UIWG Chair Murley stated he would continue to follow-up with Mr. Basu and recommended that MRC staff reach out to the South Florida Regional Planning Council to obtain additional information.

III. New Business – MRC staff distributed information regarding Brownfields funding available to the City and County.

MRC staff provided fliers for the 13th Annual Miami Riverday Festival, which will be held on Saturday, April 4, 11 am to 4 pm at Jose Marti Park, SW 4th Street and SW 4th Avenue. The free event features riverboat rides, environmental education, children activities, live music, historical re-enactments, etc.

The meeting adjourned.

I. Projects

A. Discussion of Partnering to Create Potential New Riverfront Green Spaces & Community Vegetable & Fruit Gardens on Private and/or Publicly-owned Property - Mr. Brett Bibeau, MRC Managing Director, stated per the direction of the MRC, staff continues to explore any and all sites/opportunities to establish riverfront community gardens and/or public green spaces with volunteer assistance.  Mr. Bibeau reported he visited the recently created community vegetable garden in the West Grove and distributed photographs of the site’s raised planter beds. Mr. Bibeau noted the planter beds are relatively small, especially considering the much larger sites on the list of vacant riverfront sites.  Mr. Bibeau reported he reached out to management at the Miami-Dade County-owned Robert King High pubic affordable housing facility at 1407 NW 7 Street to potentially create a garden, possibly on May 16, for volunteers to harvest food on a relatively small portion of the site’s existing large riverfront green space / riverwalk.  Mr. Bibeau noted similar to Dr. Marvin Dunn’s, Roots in the City, community garden model in Overtown, volunteers could eat the food they plant and harvest from the community garden and could consider selling any excess food to supermarkets, potentially creating an additional maintenance funding source.  Mr. Richard Schuchts, GMCC NWC Miami River Task Force Chairman, asked about the residential density surrounding Robert King High, and Mr. Bibeau replied the elderly affordable housing site is located in the low density Grove Park and Little Havana neighborhoods.  Mr. Bibeau noted staff had previously distributed a document entitled, “Vacant River Parcels for Consideration to Become Potential Public Green Spaces and or Community Gardens,” which lists addresses and folio #’s for 22 vacant and unimproved Miami River sites for the City to consider negotiating creation of potential passive public parks and/or community vegetable / fruit gardens in order to benefit the public and beautify the Miami River Greenway.  UIWG Chair Murley urged Mr. Bibeau and the City to continue looking into publicly-owned sites and/or partnerships to create public green spaces and community gardens for example a School property in Key West has a community garden.  Mr. Bibeau noted the MRC is co-sponsoring/co-hosting the following Miami River Greenway volunteer beautification events:

• Friday, April 24: 50 City Year Miami Corps Members will create a pocket park on the NE side of Flagler Bridge (FDOT public right-of-way where the bridge tender currently parks on unimproved surface on Greenway) and beautify the city-owned Miami River Greenway along North River Drive, from I-95 to 6th Avenue, via planting bushes, spreading mulch, painting, picking up litter and weeds. 
• Saturday, April 25: 150 Hands on Miami volunteers will expand Jose Marti Park to the east via planting over 115,000 square feet of grass and beautify the city-owned Miami River Greenway, via planting bushes, spreading mulch, painting, picking up litter and weeds, along South River Drive, from 2nd Avenue to NW 1st Street, as a part of Global Youth Service Day. 

II. Presentations
A. Presentation of One Miami’s Request to Remove its Dock(s) from the Approved Major Use Special Permit (MUSP) -UIWG Chair Murley welcomed Ms. Alex Iglesias, the Related Group, whom stated the attorneys representing One Miami (a project of The Related Group) had requested a deferral of this item.  UIWG Chair Murley explained that MRC staff had placed this item on the agenda-per the request of the attorneys representing One Miami-and publicly noticed it one week prior to today’s meeting. UIWG Chair Murley added that following this request, the attorneys then communicated with MRC staff its desire to defer the item, yet the meeting’s agenda had already been publicly noticed.  UIWG Chair Murley invited Ms. Iglesias to provide an update of this item, and Ms. Iglesias replied the attorneys had asked for a deferral as they were not proceeding to go before Miami City Commissioners in May, as originally indicated, to request the removal of the requirement to construct a transient temporary dock as required in One Miami’s MUSP Permit previously approved by the City Commission.  UIWG Chair Murley explained the MRC serves in a strictly advisory capacity to the City of Miami, and noted the originally approved public amenities included in One Miami’s MUSP, i.e. the publicly accessible riverwalk and temporary transient dockage for the site’s restaurants and potential future water taxis/buses, are very positive aspects of an integrated, continuous riverwalk system along the Miami River to benefit the public, and the MRC therefore previously considered and recommended approval of the MUSP, which includes the requirement of constructing the transient courtesy dock.  UIWG Chair Murley stated with the upcoming Miami Intermodal Center and Miami Marlins Ballpark, the need for waterborne transit is increasing and temporary transient dock infrastructure is critical for waterborne transit feasibility.  UIWG Chair Murley stated since the Related Group decided not to file for the removal of the MUSP requirement to build the dock, the requirement remains in the City Commission’s previously approved MUSP, which was previously presented to and supported by the MRC.  Therefore there is nothing for him or the MRC to reconsider at this time, and offered the MRC’s assistance to the Related Group.  UIWG Chair Murley noted the MRC is attempting to address an issue/find a solution with the riverwalk connection between One Miami and Epic, and asked Ms. Iglesias for her assistance on this matter. Ms. Iglesias replied she would forward this request to the appropriate party.

B. Update on Implementation of the DDA's Downtown Master Plan - Mr. Javier Betancourt, Downtown Development Authority, distributed a PowerPoint slideshow of the Downtown Miami Master Plan update and highlighted the following elements:

• Compilation/consolidation of previous studies, including study conducted by Bernard Zyscovich
• DDA creating new Downtown Miami Master Plan, which will include all of the previous Study’s river components and create a self standing Miami River District.  The new Plan is being created by DDA staff and will be presented to DDA board in late May
• Study and future Plan will address streetscapes, parks/open spaces, waterborne transit, waterfront access (activation and enhancement), transfer of boat slips, completion of the Miami River Greenway in the DDA District, creation of Fisherman’s Wharf on Miami River, and transferring riverfront vacant sites into public greenspaces
• Involvement with Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce (Miami River Task Force) and the Florida Inland Navigation District – Spencer Crowley expressed support for the Miami River Greenway, Waterborne Transportation, and making vacant riverfront sites into public greenspaces

Mr. Bibeau noted the City of Miami’s Comprehensive Neighborhood Plan supports the creation of a Fisherman’s Wharf, and suggested creating this opportunity in part within the DDA boundary possibly at either the vacant former East Coast Fisheries site (located on North River Drive between the Flagler Street Bridge and the 1st Street Bridge) or Lummus Landing.  Mr. Bibeau stated District City Commissioner Michelle Spence Jones is supportive of this concept, and indicated to him that during the April City Commission meeting she would direct the City Manager to begin the process of issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to create a Fisherman’s Wharf in Lummus Park on the Miami River.  Mr. Bibeau stated Commissioner Spence-Jones also remains supportive of completing the boardwalk at Lummus Landing.  Mr. Spencer Crowley, The Florida Inland Navigation District, stated FIND has funding to acquire waterfront land for recreational purposes, which requires a dollar – to dollar (1-1) match from the City, and perhaps the district Commissioner is willing to provide a match utilizing some of her district discretionary funding. The UIWG invited Mr. Betancourt to present the new Downtown Miami Master Plan to the MRC during its June 2 meeting.

C. Update on “Miami Intermodal Center (MIC) Associated Development Area” Between the MIC/TriRail and Miami River – Ms. Helen Brown, Miami-Dade County Planning & Zoning, stated the County will have a survey completed of the economic opportunities surrounding Miami International Airport within the next 6-8 weeks, and suggested contacting Mr. Bob Schwartzwright in her department to obtain additional information. Ms. Brown stated the County’s Urban Design Section has scheduled a meeting with Miami-Dade County Commissioner Bruno Barreiro to discuss future plans for Palmer Lake.  Ms. Brown suggested contacting Mr. Eric Silva in her department to obtain further information regarding the County’s initiative to launch a potential charette for Palmer Lake.  Ms. Ashley Chase, MRC Assistant Managing Director, stated she had invited Ms. Brown and her Department to the MRC’s Economic Development and Commerce Subcommittee’s April 27 meeting, in which Palmer Lake and the MIC Associated Development area would be discussed with EDC Chairman Commissioner Bruno Barreiro.

III. New Business – Attendees updated UIWG Chair Murley regarding the Miami Circle as referenced in the MRC’s April 6 minutes, as Murley was out of town and unable to attend.  Mr. Betancourt stated the Historical Museum of South Florida (HMSF) is hosting a Miami Circle Leadership Briefing on May 6, and suggested the DDA will seek to convene a meeting of the MRC recommended Miami Circle Task Force prior to then.  Mr. Crowley stated he will assist the FL Department of State, FL Department of Management Services, Glatting Jackson, and HMSF, through the process to obtain the desired permits to construct a publicly accessible section of the Miami River Greenway, including Miami-Dade County’s Shoreline Development Review Committee, City of Miami’s Historic and Environmental Preservation Board, etc. Mr. Crowley added that once the State completes the site survey, the next step is a City Commission Class II Special Permit.  Mr. Crowley stated Glatting Jackson is preparing the design concept for the riverwalk at the Miami Circle site, and FIND supports the construction of a publicly accessible, complete & permanent riverwalk as soon as possible.  Mr. Crowley added Glatting Jackson will also develop a master plan for the interpretive facilities at the site, which are yet to be funded, unlike the funded Riverwalk.  Mr. Bibeau noted Mr. Crowley and Mr. Schuchts presented a great idea to continue the Miami Circle’s riverwalk beneath the Brickell Bridge and proceed west via a proposed cantilevered boardwalk in front of Capital Grille’s s parking lot, yet behind the bridge fenders, which would then connect to a riverwalk (1/2 cantilevered, 1/2 on the upland at the adjacent office building before connecting to the existing riverwalk at Brickell on the River.  Chairman Murley stated it was a neat concept and attempts to remain directly on the riverfront, yet noted the difficulty in permitting cantilevered boardwalks, therefore recommended an on-road Greenway along SE 5 ST as well.

The UIWG confirmed its next regularly scheduled second Tuesday of the month, 10 AM, publicly noticed meeting for May 12, 2009, 10 AM.

The meeting adjourned.

I. Presentations:

A. Discussion of American Institute of Architects (AIA) June 2010 National Convention And Feasibility to Include the Miami River as a Legacy Project - Mr. Subrata Basu, Miami Dade County Planning Department and UIWG Chair Murley provided the following report:  The AIA is hosting a major convention in Miami on June 10-13, 2010.  As a part of the convention, the AIA provides the host community with a “Catalyst” Plan, formerly known as a “Legacy” Project.  The AIA has selected the Miami River for their 2010 “Catalyst Plan”, partially due to its uniqueness, recently completed Miami River Maintenance Dredging and Environmental Clean-Up Project, and history of Miami River Plans and Studies.  The 2010 AIA theme is “Design for the next decade”.  Formerly an AIA “Legacy” Plan would be created by a “Regional Urban Design Assistance Team” (RUDAT) and now the AIA Miami River Corridor Catalyst Plan will be created by a “Sustainable Design Assistance Team” (SDAT), which is a broader spectrum of different experts, potentially including Universities, economic analysis, etc.  The SDAT Leader is Antonio Demambro, from Boston, whom works around the Country.  Recent AIA Catalyst Plan for Detroit will be provided as an example.  National AIA staff and Mr. Demambro will attend and participate in the MRC’s 11/9/09 meeting, noon, 1407 NW 7 ST, and will be in Miami for three days to take a Miami River Boat Tour, interview stakeholders and fine tune the scope.  Mr. Basu and UIWG Chair Murley agreed the MRC’s UIWG would serve as a venue for the AIA’s Miami River Catalyst Plan’s “Local Steering Committee” with extra efforts to engage the City, County, Universities, residents, Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Development Authority, Marine Industry, stakeholders, etc.  Mr. Basu stated he met with Commissioner Barreiro whom supports this effort in addition to the Miami-Dade County Planning Department’s Palmer Lake / Upper River Planning efforts which are estimated to be concluded prior to creation of the AIA Miami River Catalyst Plan, which is estimated to be completed in August 2010, two months after the AIA Convention in June 2010, which will include the AIA Miami River Catalyst Plan’s Charette.  UIWG Chair Murley suggested taking the new Miami 21 regulations and opportunity to create a special area plan / project into account, in addition to using the AIA Miami River Catalyst Plan as part of the input for Miami-Dade County’s Evaluation and Appraisal Report, which is also the next item on the UIWG agenda.  Mr. Basu and UIWG Chair Murley stated the AIA Miami River Catalyst Plan will be for a mixed use Working Miami River with current various characterizations including marine industrial businesses, and sees the Miami River as an amenity.

B.  Discussion and Update of Miami-Dade County Evaluation Appraisal Report (EAR) – Ms. Helen Brown, Miami-Dade County Planning Department, provided copies of the Port of Miami River sub-element of the Miami-Dade County Neighborhood Comprehensive Plan, Miami-Dade County’s 2003 EAR related to the Port of Miami River sub-element, and an estimated schedule for the process to create the EAR, which will lead to amendments in the County’s Comprehensive Plan.  Ms. Brown noted the recent public hearings lead to the following four primary focuses for the EAR:

1. Growth Management
2. Climate Change
3. Directing Growth and Employment
4. Mobility Planning

Attendees reviewed the Port of Miami River Monitoring Program Objective PMR-2.  Ms. Brown stated she had received Miami River cargo tonnage from 9 of the Miami River’s International Shipping Terminals for 2003-2005.  Dr. Bohnsack, Miami River Marine Group, noted in addition the County may review the County’s Bridge Tender logs from the County’s SW 2 Ave Bridge, which notes boat sizes for bridge openings, etc.  Ms. Brown stated she has requested current Piers Reports from the Port of Miami, which include data for the Port of Miami River for the remaining years from 2006-2009.  Dr. Bohnsack stated she would provide the MRC with a copy of the Miami River Marine Groups written EAR input and information submitted to date.  In addition, Ms. Brown was provided the MPO / MRC / KHA Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Plan, which contains data per Port of Miami River Monitoring Program Objective PMR-2

UIWG Chair Murley recommended MRC Chair Buermann place this item on the MRC’s November 9, 2009 meeting agenda.  UIWG Chair Murley recommended the MRC make the following advisory recommendation regarding the Miami-Dade County Evaluation Appraisal Report:

1. Page II-63, PMR – 1A., currently states “Miami-Dade County shall establish a marine industrial/commercial district along the banks of the Miami River west of NW 27 Avenue”.

EAR Recommendation: After Miami-Dade County Planning Department drafted the aforementioned district, it was not placed on the Board of County Commissioners agenda for consideration.  Therefore this item needs to be amended.
Recommended Future Ear Based Amendment to the County’s Comp Plan: PMR – 1A “Miami-Dade County shall establish promote actions which maintain and enhance a marine industrial activities /commercial district along the banks of the Miami River west of NW 27 Avenue”.

1. EAR Recommendation:  Since the 2003 EAR and EAR based amendments, Miami-Dade County Transit made a written commitment to provide the Eminent Domain public right of way beneath and adjacent to the fixed 40 foot vertical clearance (where 75 foot is required) Metro-Rail bridge to the Miami Intermodal Center (MIC), for marine industrial uses upon completion of the bridge construction.

Recommended Future EAR Based Amendment to the County’s Comp Plan: Create a new section of the County’s Comprehensive Plan to reflect the Miami-Dade Transit written commitment to provide the Eminent Domain public right of way beneath and adjacent to the fixed 40 foot vertical clearance (where 75 foot is required) Metro-Rail bridge to the Miami Intermodal Center (MIC), for marine industrial uses upon completion of the bridge construction.

1. Create a new section of the County’s Comprehensive Plan to reflect support for Water Borne transportation on the Miami River.
2. Page II-64, PMR-2A

EAR Recommendation:  As requested in this Comp Plan section created in 2003, in 2007 the Miami-Dade Metropolitan Planning Organization and Miami River Commission retained Kimley Horn and Associates, which created the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Study
Recommended Future EAR Based Amendment to the County’s Comp Plan: PMR-2A, “Initiate a Implement the Miami River Corridor Multi-Modal Transportation Study with cooperation of all concerned agencies (i.e. County, City MPO, FDOT, MDX, US Coast Guard, etc.)”

1. Page II-64, PMR-3A

EAR Recommendation: As requested in this section of the County’s Comp Plan, the Miami River Maintenance Dredging and Environmental Clean-Up Project was successfully completed in October 2008.
Recommended Future EAR Based Amendment to the County’s Comp Plan:  PMR-3A, “Miami-Dade County shall continue to place high priority on having the polluted sediments removed from the Miami River, tributaries and canals”

The meeting adjourned.