At its December 13, 2023 meeting, the City Commission approved a referral to the Finance and Economic Resiliency Committee (FERC), to discuss and identify funding for lighting enhancements in specified areas of South Beach (similar to other successful lighting projects implemented in other areas of the City, such as 41st Street, 71st Street and Meridian Avenue), as previously recommended by the Public Safety and Neighborhood Quality of Life Committee.

This is a continuation of discussions initiated last year by then Commissioner now Mayor Meiner, to improve public safety, create more visibility for pedestrians and drivers, and elevate aesthetics for the benefit of businesses and residents. Attached are updated cost estimates that were presented at Committee in December 2022.  There has been a 15% average increase since then, due to market conditions and material costs .

A summary of the proposals for the enhancements, including maintenance costs for a period of one year after installation (full proposals attached) are as follows:

• Ocean Drive from 5th Street to 15th Street, (decorative lights and new flood lights).

FROM: $427,411.09 TO: $462,471.10

• Washington Avenue from 5th Street to 17th Street (median trees).

FROM: $217,840.00 TO: $272,532.00  

• Washington Avenue from 5th Street to 17th Street, (east and west sidewalks).

FROM: $1,092,270.00   TO: $1,195,950.00

• Collins Avenue from 5th Street to 23rd Street, (tree wrap).

FROM: $1,827,960.00,   TO: $2,115,780.00