Lincoln Road Enters New Era with City of Miami Beach’s $29.4 Million Upgrade

Miami Beach, FL – Join the City of Miami Beach and the Lincoln Road Business Improvement District on Friday, Sept. 5 at 10 a.m. for a groundbreaking ceremony that will usher in a new era of dining, shopping and entertainment along iconic Lincoln Road as the first part of Phase II work begins on a $29.4 million upgrade that encompasses improvements to Drexel and Meridian avenues, including new outdoor seating and an extended pedestrian experience. The groundbreaking will take place on the southwest corner of Lincoln Road and Drexel Avenue and a future groundbreaking ceremony will be scheduled for Meridian Avenue.

“This landmark investment ensures Lincoln Road continues to be an iconic Miami Beach destination,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “We are creating a safer, more vibrant, world-class pedestrian experience and I am committed to delivering this transformation.”

The famed outdoor pedestrian retail district was originally developed by Carl Fisher in 1912 with the vision of creating the “Fifth Avenue of the South.” In the 1950s, legendary Miami Beach architect Morris Lapidus, who produced some 200 hotels and helped define postmodern architecture in Miami Beach with such recognizable landmarks as the Fontainebleau and Eden Roc hotels, was tapped to reenvision Lincoln Road. Lapidus later pointed to Lincoln Road as the “one place that gives me the greatest pleasure” with its whimsical designs that integrated a functional commercial space with fountains, pools and waterfalls.

“Globally renowned hospitality groups have announced upcoming openings, investors like Robert Rivani are purchasing property and committing to the future of Lincoln Road, and a wave of ultra-luxury development just steps away from us has earned this area of Miami Beach a new moniker - “Billionaire’s Beach,” added Lyle Stern, president of the Lincoln Road Business Improvement District. “Lincoln Road is experiencing a once-in-a-generation transformation, blending its storied past with a bold vision for the future. With billions of dollars of private investments underway, the district is poised to become Miami Beach’s culinary capital, cultural hot spot and premier commercial hub.”

The yearlong refresh and pedestrianization of Drexel Avenue will facilitate connectivity from north to south for residents and visitors, making it safer and easier for pedestrians to access The Fillmore Miami Beach, New World Center, Soundscape Park and the upcoming Grand Hyatt Miami Beach Convention Center Hotel, as well as the Miami Beach Convention Center, City Hall, Pride Park and much more. Designed by Field Operations and brought to life by contractor Buslam Company Partners Inc., the reimagined space includes new outdoor seating for entertainment and an enhanced visitor experience.

The project will also include upgraded sidewalks, additional public seating, improved lighting, new landscaping and new traffic signals at the intersection of Drexel Avenue and 16 Street. All businesses along Lincoln Road remain open and accessible to pedestrians through the duration of the revitalization project.

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