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The legal battle over the fate of the Coconut Grove Playhouse is finally over, clearing the way for a revitalization of the cultural heart of Miami’s most famous business district.
The historic Playhouse, which has stood empty since financial difficulties shut its doors nearly two decades ago, will now be restored and reopened, bringing theater back to Miami’s oldest neighborhood.
“I’m absolutely thrilled,” said County Commissioner Raquel Regalado, who was charged by her colleagues with brokering a resolution to years of conflict between the County and the City of Miami over the restoration plan. “People are passionate about this theater, and I think everyone involved did their best to create a plan that we can all be proud of while respecting the needs of the area.”
Debate over the theater stretches back more than 15 years. In recent years, litigation halted any attempts to restore the theater. This week, the city ended its legal fight, allowing the next phase of the project to proceed.
“I appreciate the efforts of Miami’s Mayor and the City Commission to advocate for a good plan,” said Commissioner Regalado. “We all want our residents and businesses to benefit from a beautiful, financially viable theater that honors our history. Working together with our community, we have made this a better plan.”
Once restored, the theater will be managed in partnership with Florida International University and GableStage and offer programs to local schools and community groups. The addition of a 300-space parking garage will also help relieve a huge parking deficit for businesses and neighborhood schools, as well as help fund the theater in perpetuity. The Coconut Grove Business Improvement District and the Knight Foundation will also contribute funding to bring back a cultural gem for generations to come.
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