I am a resident of South Gables and every winter, I eagerly anticipate the arrival of manatees in our local canal. These gentle creatures, which are an endangered species, seek refuge in our warm and fresh waters and it is our responsibility to protect them. However, the proposed construction of 515,000 square feet in tall buildings at 6100 Caballero Blvd threatens their habitat.

The planned development includes multiple wide structures of 13 and 9 floors surrounding the Mahi canal on Gables Waterways in a U shape (Caballero Blvd, US1 and South Alhambra circle), a place defined as essential manatee habitat by Miami Dade County. This construction would cause debris, noise pollution and chemical contamination that could harrass, harm or even kill these precious marine mammals and the seagrass beds in the location, which are their source of food. Moreover, the shadow cast by these tall buildings would block sunlight from reaching the waterway while altering wind patterns - both factors that could drastically change this vital habitat for manatees, that need warm waters in the winter.

Manatees are protected under federal law by both The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and The Endangered Species Act of 1973 which prohibit harassing, hunting or killing these animals. Therefore it is not just an environmental concern but also a legal issue.

We must prioritize preserving our natural environment over reckless overdevelopment. Our city's charm lies not only in its beautiful architecture but also its rich biodiversity which we should strive to protect for future generations.

Please sign this petition to urge Coral Gables city officials to not accept this construction project at 6100 Caballero Blvd so as not to disrupt or destroy the winter refuge for manatees in Mahi Canal of Coral Gables.