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As Miami enters another pivotal election cycle, we have a unique opportunity to shape the future of our beloved city. The Watson Harbour project, proposed by BH3 Management and Merrimac Ventures, is on the ballot this November – and time is of the essence.
With absentee ballots already arriving and early voting starting on Oct. 21, it’s critical that we act now. I urge every City of Miami voter to support this transformative project that promises to finally bring new life to Watson Island after years of stalled efforts and missed opportunities.
Located midway between Downtown Miami and Miami Beach, Watson Island has been an untapped resource for far too long. While other areas of Miami’s urban cores have thrived, Watson Island has languished despite its prime waterfront location. Now, the proposed Watson Harbour project offers a chance to turn this underutilized space into a vibrant destination that benefits both residents and visitors.
Imagine a waterfront promenade, expansive green spaces, dining options, and new cultural attractions – all set against the stunning backdrop of Biscayne Bay. This vision is within reach, but only if we come together and vote in favor of the project this November.
The Watson Harbour plan is more than just another development, it’s a community investment that’s been in the works for over two decades. In fact, Miami voters approved plans for the development of city-owned land on Watson Island in 2001 – and a site plan is already approved.
No additional burden on taxpayers
But unlike many large-scale projects, this one is entirely privately funded, meaning no additional burden on taxpayers. Instead, it brings direct benefits to our city, including a 2.2-acre public promenade that will grant everyone access to the waterfront, a maritime museum to celebrate Miami’s rich history, and critical infrastructure improvements.
The plan also includes a key component – a $9 million contribution to affordable housing and infrastructure, addressing a pressing need in our community. This investment isn’t just about building, it’s about creating a more inclusive Miami.
The economic benefits of Watson Harbour cannot be overstated. By approving this project, we will generate millions of dollars in additional tax revenue for the City of Miami each year – revenue that can be reinvested in our schools, parks, and public services.
Good paying jobs for local workforce
The project also promises to create numerous jobs, prioritizing hires from underserved communities and offering retail space to nonprofit organizations. At a time when Miami’s cost of living is rising, Watson Harbour’s contribution to local employment and affordable housing is a vital step toward a more equitable future.
Moreover, Watson Harbour is designed with Miami’s long-term resilience in mind. The development plan includes modern sustainability features, such as a seawall that exceeds base flood elevation standards, solar and LED lighting, native landscaping, and advanced stormwater management systems. These elements ensure that the project not only respects Miami’s unique environment but also strengthens our ability to adapt to the challenges of climate change. This is a project that will preserve the beauty of Biscayne Bay while making our city more resilient for future generations.
I know some may feel a sense of fatigue when it comes to plans for Watson Island – after all, we’ve seen ambitious ideas come and go for decades without materializing. But this time, it’s different. BH3 Management and Merrimac Ventures have a proven track record of delivering transformative projects, such as the Miami Worldcenter and the Four Seasons Hotel in Fort Lauderdale.
These are seasoned developers who understand how to bring complex, large-scale projects to fruition and have demonstrated their commitment to making Miami a world-class city. With their expertise and vision, Watson Harbour is poised to succeed where previous efforts have failed.
The time for action is now
We cannot afford another decade of inaction on Watson Island while Miami’s growth continues all around it. Voting in favor of the Watson Harbour project means choosing progress over stagnation. It means choosing a future where Miami’s waterfront is accessible to all, where our economy thrives, and where our city is prepared for the environmental challenges ahead.
As absentee ballots arrive in mailboxes and early voting begins on Oct. 21, I encourage you to seize this opportunity. Vote yes on Watson Harbour and help us finally unlock the potential of Watson Island. Let’s build a Miami that is vibrant, inclusive, and ready for the future. Let’s make Watson Harbour a reality, not just a dream.
Remember, Election Day is Nov. 5. Every vote counts. Let’s come together and support this once-in-a-generation opportunity for our city. Watson Island’s future is in our hand – let’s make it a bright one.
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