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Project Overview and Benefits
The Beachwalk reforestation effort aims to enhance one of the City’s most recognized assets by creating shade and addressing extreme heat for this pedestrian and cyclist mobility corridor that is part of the Atlantic Greenway Network. The project is funded by both a United States Forest Service Urban and Community Forest Grant and 2018 G.O. Bond to plant approximately 600 trees along the entire seven (7) mile stretch in 2024. Additionally, the project will contribute to the City’s goal of increasing the tree canopy from 17% to 22%.
What's Happening
The medium to large trees will create canopy in areas where it is needed most in areas of the Beachwalk with low canopy. The palette will include native and Florida-friendly species which are resilient to saltwater spray, inundation, and well-adapted to the harsh environment in which they will be planted. The diverse plant palette is selected with consideration for coastal fortification and restoration.
An additional consideration for the project includes preserving the historic viewshed of the Beachwalk and using these needed trees to fill spaces that have been identified as gaps and under the threat of extreme heat. Minimizing conflict and impact to the ocean view from private properties through the Beachwalk was a strategic priority during the surveying process of potential tree installation locations.
These new trees will be a resilient addition to Miami Beach’s renowned Beachwalk, enhancing aesthetics while also incorporating environmental, health, and economic benefits such as:
- Reduced surface and ambient temperatures
- Improved storm surge and water management
- Increased biodiversity and conservation of species
- Enhanced property values
- Improved urban canopy and Tree Equity Score
During the community outreach effort, the Urban Forestry Division will offer feedback on any questions about the project and the importance of implementing green infrastructure strategies to enhance neighborhoods. City staff have identified the locations of these additional trees with stakes and signage to include more information on this coming project with a scheduled start date of August 2024.
The City is soliciting resident feedback from all waterfront properties adjacent to the Beachwalk. Questions regarding tree locations and species should be sent to Outreach@miamibeachfl.gov by Monday, August 26, 2024.
Click here to view the list of tree species that will be planted, or visit the project page for additional information.
Schedule
This project is expected to commence in August 2024.
Contact
For more information please contact Kevin Pulido, Neighborhood Affairs Director at Outreach@miamibeachfl.gov.
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