Living in Miami Beach over 30 years, I've witnessed firsthand the degradation of our community's quality of life with each new, outsized development. Over the years, we've seen beautiful, character-rich streets succumb to towering structures that came with many failed promises attached. These aren't just mere buildings—they're developments that fail to blend with the tapestry of our beloved neighborhoods and vibrant community, ultimately detracting from the unique charm and beauty that draws both residents and visitors alike to Miami Beach. Why do we continue to trip over the same proverbial rock (or cement building)? We can do better!!!

These developments often spring up along Miami Beach's already heavily traveled corridors, exacerbating traffic congestion and straining our infrastructure. They're not just architectural mismatches; they're also a burden on our daily lives. The noise, the increase in travel time, and the disruption to local businesses  and quality of life can no longer be ignored and our local leaders need to listen to their constituients herein. Every new project seems to prioritize profit over people, leading to a loss of the historic character and sense of community that so many of us hold dear and fails to offer real alternatives or even a "beta-test" of any proposed change in a less impactful site that's worthy of review and modification as needed.

With a billion dollar infrastructure project already taking shape, why not consider more green spaces that embrace the wellness lifestyle approach of neighboring Sunset Harbor with a low impact, enviromental friendly approach? We can all collectively agree on a number of alternative uses for the historic Epicure site that dont include another concrete wall of shame. Please speak up for now is the time to protect the character and culture of our community while preserving the honorable dreams of Barbara Baer Capitman and the Art Deco dreams that have helped shape Miami Beach into the the global destination and home for generations of believers...

Join us in urging our Mayor and Commissioners to reject the outsized development AKA: "Alton City Center" (1656 - 1680 Alton Rd) that does not enhance our community, rather creates more disruption. Let’s work toward sustainable growth that preserves the integrity and international culture of Miami Beach. By signing this petition, you are taking a stand for thoughtful, responsible development that serves the true interests of the people who call this place home. Please sign and share this petition to help protect the soul of Miami Beach.