Bus Shelter Prototype
About the Project
The City of Miami Beach has developed a new series of iconic, sculptural bus shelters designed to improve comfort, functionality and aesthetics for transit riders. These shelters will be gradually installed at every bus stop where the right-of-way (ROW) permits, contributing to a more modern and vibrant public space. To ensure that the final product meets both user needs and the city’s design goals, we are testing a prototype in the field. This page provides an overview of the project, and the specific features included in the prototype shelter currently on display.
Shelter Types and Sizes
Three shelter types have been designed to accommodate varying site conditions:
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Standard:
20’ long x 7’ wide (includes 5’ wide front overhang and 2’ wide rear overhang)
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Minimal:
10’ long x 7’ wide (width same as above)
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Narrow:
10’ long x 3’ wide (slim shelter/roof for constrained sidewalks)
Each shelter type is modular and can be configured with various components depending on space and needs.
Prototype Overview
The shelter prototype currently installed at the bus stop on Indian Creek Drive, just south of 41 Street, is the Minimal Shelter (10 ft x 7 ft). It includes:
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One seat
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One leaning rail
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One digital ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) sign
Purpose of Prototype: This installation allows the city to test structural performance, user experience, lighting and component functionality before beginning full-scale production and installation, which is anticipated to begin later this year.
Design Vision
The shelters were designed with the following principles in mind:
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Sculptural Flow:
A lightweight, flowing structure that blends into the urban landscape with elegance.
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Light and Shadow Play:
The use of perforated panels, skylights and dichroic film creates a dynamic play of light throughout the day.
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Integrated Lighting:
Subtle, built-in lighting elements enhance visibility and safety at night.
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Colorful & Engaging:
Optional color accents and patterns provide visual interest and reflect the spirit of Miami Beach.
Key Components
Seating & Leaning Rails
Designed to maximize comfort and accessibility while minimizing footprint. Shelters can be equipped with various configurations of:
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Backless seats
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Leaning rails for short-term comfort
ETA Digital Display
Each shelter can feature a real-time digital arrival screen, showing estimated arrival times for upcoming buses. The display is mounted at eye level and integrated seamlessly into the shelter design
What’s Next
This prototype is part of the City’s commitment to reimagining the transit experience for residents and visitors alike. Following the successful field test of this shelter, the City will move forward with mass production and installation of the new shelters at eligible bus stops citywide, beginning later this year.
These next-generation shelters represent a major investment in public comfort, design excellence, and modern transit infrastructure—and they’re just the beginning.
Thank you for your interest in this project and for helping us build a more connected and welcoming Miami Beach.
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