The purpose of the project is to provide shade for Beachwalk users in appropriate areas and to diversify the dune ecosystem following the Dune Management Plan.

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
• Increased biodiversity and conservation of species
• Enhanced property values
• Improved urban canopy and Tree Equity Score

In 2023, Miami Dade experienced 42 days where the Heat Index reached at least 105°F, compared to an average of 6 days per year for the previous 14 years. The 2023 season also brought the first ever heat warning in recorded history. These figures are expected to rise; the recent 6th National Climate Risk Assessment report on heat estimates that Miami-Dade County should expect about 91 days with a heat index of 100 degrees or more by 2053. Planting shade for the future is important in cities like ours with a lot of pavement and buildings.

Trees will be planted on both sides of the Beachwalk from North Beach Oceanside Park to South Pointe Pier. The project will be organized in sections to be determined later after reviewing resident suggestions during the public comment period. Special care in the implementation of this project will be addressed to maintain the usability of the Beachwalk throughout the duration of the project.

The City of Miami Beach will perform routine annual maintenance on the trees in areas where the City currently maintains the general landscaping- generally east of the Beachwalk- and includes annual trimming.

Residents’ Request for Shade: Many expressed a desire for more shade on the Beachwalk. Trees not only beautify the environment but also provide essential shade, making outdoor areas more comfortable for everyone.

Addressing Rising Temperatures: As temperatures continue to rise the need for effective heat mitigation strategies becomes critical. Planting trees helps combat heat and contributes to overall environmental resilience.

The project aims to make Beachwalk greener, cooler, and more pleasant for the community.

The Dune Management Plan (DMP) is overseen by the Environment and Sustainability Department. The City has authorization by the State to manage the dune system. The diverse palette includes trees recommended by the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection Dune Management Plan/ and Institute of Regional Conservation through their research publications.  The tree will include trees found throughout Florida and the Caribbean. The City’s certified arborists anticipate that the trees will not reach full height due to environmental constraints such as heat, sand, daily light to heavy salt spray, wind, and storms.

The project was approved by the GOB Committee and the City Commission twice. This project has been conceived since at least 2021 based on the requests for shade along the Beachwalk.  The shade trees were designed to complement the new Beachwalk since much vegetation was removed during that project.

The city has taken special consideration to preserve the historic viewshed of the Beachwalk wherever possible. 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.

The Beachwalk is currently vegetated with palms, sea grapes, and other trees. Several properties already have private landscaping that is comparable to the heights of the new trees when mature. The project aims to provide shade for walkers and bikers in regions with limited shade, rather than creating a dense tree canopy. Most condo units are high enough to look over the dunes, existing and proposed trees.

Staff are willing to meet with any property owners who may have concerns about the proposed plantings adjacent to their building.

With respect to outreach, the City has provided project information to the public via the following channels:

• Mailed 16,000 postcard fliers to each building unit fronting the Beachwalk. The flier included details, a link to the website, and a QR Code to access more information.
• Emailed project fact sheets and updates, which included a comment period for residents to provide feedback to staff.
• Utilized GIS to develop a proposed tree planting map, allowing residents to see where trees will be planted along the Beachwalk.
• Project page was created comprising links to previous presentations, material, FAQs, contact information for the project team, etc.
• Meetings with properties are being held upon request, and the city is willing to modify locations and tree types wherever feasible.
• Promote project information across the city's various social media platforms.

This project is anticipated to begin in the Summer of 2025 in conjunction with the start of the rainy season for optimal tree health and proper approval requirements.