Urban Design

At the Miami DDA we are focused on the design and shape of our Downtown core, particularly the public right of way. We want to create great streets and community spaces. We want to collaborate with our agency partners to rebalance roadways towards transit, pedestrians & cyclists. We strive to ensure our sidewalks and promenades are not only safe, clean, shaded and well-lit, but also are activated with shopping, outdoor dining, public art, events and performers. Above all, we strive to create an attractive urban core that will increase patronage to our existing businesses, attract new businesses, spur economic growth and make Downtown Miami a cultural and commercial destination once again.

Project Pages

Baywalk & Riverwalk Activation Initiative

Over the last several years, the Miami DDA has funded and managed events to activate the Baywalk & the Riverwalk. These events have included moonlight kayaking/paddleboarding, children’s oversize-Lego building, live music, painting, food festivals, and educational water-quality tours with schoolchildren.

Baywalk & Riverwalk Lighting Initiative

This initiative addresses the issue that numerous waterfront sites do not feel welcoming or safe, particularly at night, due to a lack of lighting.

Baywalk & Riverwalk Waterfront Design Guidelines

Many waterfront sites are not welcoming due to a lack of shade/tree canopy, nor do they feel safe and active due to a lack of lighting. Moreover, many sites were built without taking into account sea-level rise, storm-surge mitigation and resiliency. In 2017, in partnership with the City of Miami and the Miami River Commission, the Miami DDA took on this challenge.

Downtown Dog Spot

Over the last several years, the Miami DDA has funded and managed events to activate the Baywalk & the Riverwalk. These events have included moonlight kayaking/paddleboarding, children’s oversize-Lego building, live music, painting, food festivals, and educational water-quality tours with schoolchildren.

Outdoor Dining - Restaurant Recovery Program

In an effort to help Miami restaurants get up and running following the COVID-19 shutdown, the Miami DDA has been collaborating with the City of Miami to implement the Restaurant Recovery Program.

Riverwalk Coordination & Cleanup

As an economic development agency, the Miami DDA firmly believes in an attractive, safe, and welcoming Downtown core to serve both residents and our business community, as well as attract tourists.