ANALYSIS:
On the Referral, Commissioner Steinberg mentions the need to explore turning this parcel into something that will enhance the area and add to the quality of life of the community like a designated dog area.
The parcel’s northern property line runs approximately along the northern edge of the northerly sidewalk, with traffic bordering both the eastern and western edges of the property. The triangular parcel of land lies within the Florida Department of Transportation's (FDOT) right of way (ROW) limits, and is currently maintained by the City under its routine landscape maintenance contracts.
There are opportunities to enhance the landscaping in this area. However, at the request of the Miami Beach Police Department the existing bench was removed due to homeless activity. Additionally, Greenspace Management staff were asked to reduce the height of the shrubbery to a maximum of 24 inches to facilitate views into the space and eliminate hiding places.
There is an opportunity to provide a small dog area similar to what was recently installed in the Normandy Neighborhood. However, in order to fence in a portion of FDOT's existing ROW, the City would have to obtain permission from the governing agency.