Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood continues to redefine itself as a bustling arts-focused destination, hosting an estimated 350,000 visitors during this year’s edition of Miami Art Week.
The former industrial district welcomed a mix of art fans from around the globe, local residents and renowned street artists in early December who were drawn by Wynwood’s trademark street art murals, laid-back vibe and unique retail and dining options.
The Wynwood Arts District, the 50-square-block area that makes up the heart of Wynwood, was able to accommodate the massive crowds, thanks in large part to the decision to temporarily close the district’s main thoroughfare to traffic and convert it into a pedestrian-only street.
The Wynwood Business Improvement District (BID), which is made up of local property owners, worked closely with the City of Miami Police Department and city administrators to plan and prepare for the influx of Art Week visitors. Miami Police Department leaders spearheaded the effort to transform Wynwood’s main thoroughfare, NW Second Avenue, into a pedestrian street during afternoon and evening hours, to ensure that the hundreds of thousands of visitors who descended on Wynwood had a safe, enjoyable experience. That move — which was paired with increased traffic control police officers on surrounding streets — proved effective, with no major incidents reported and ample space to accommodate the large crowds. Increased cleaning efforts by the BID’s Street Team and City of Miami Public Works Department rounded out preparations.
“This year’s Art Week was a resounding success in Wynwood,” said Manny Gonzalez, executive director of the Wynwood BID. “Working with our partners at Miami PD and the city, we delivered a safe, memorable experience for our guests, while helping local galleries, restaurants, breweries and independent retailers to make the most of the big influx of visitors.
“Creating a pedestrian-oriented setup for the weekend was key, and we appreciate our merchants’ willingness to adjust their operations to accommodate the change,” he added.
“A lot of thought and even more planning went into the decision to shut down NE Second Avenue during Miami Art Week this year, and we’re pleased with the outcome,” said Albert Garcia, BID Board vice chair. “On behalf of the BID, I commend Commander Albert Guerra of the Miami Police Department and his team for executing the plan and ensuring that our visitors had a great Wynwood experience. The the feedback we’ve received from visitors and local merchants has been very positive.”
In recent years, Wynwood has emerged as a global destination for art enthusiasts, with the neighborhood’s warehouses now doubling as canvasses for the what has become the world’s largest collection of street art. Wynwood’s successful transformation from a nondescript industrial district to a bustling, arts-focused neighborhood has been driven by private property owners and gallerists who have collaborated directly with artists to remake the district with vibrant public art.
The Wynwood BID is a municipal board of the City of Miami representing more than 400 property owners that comprise the 50-city-block Wynwood Arts District. Run by a board of directors who themselves are property owners from the community, the BID works to enhance security and sanitation services in the neighborhood, advocate for the betterment of the area, raise awareness of advancements being made, and plan for the future of Wynwood.
