Massive redevelopment in Miami’s Little River to bring 5,000+ homes, retail, and transit hub
Miami’s Little River and Little Haiti neighborhoods are poised for a dramatic change as a $2.6 billion redevelopment project moves forward. Spearheaded by Swerdlow Group, the ambitious plan seeks to introduce nearly 5,000 workforce and affordable housing units, a new Tri-Rail station, and major retail stores to the area.
A new era for Little River
The project, one of Miami’s largest redevelopment efforts to date, will revamp a nearly mile-long stretch of aging industrial land into a modern, mixed-use community. The plan spans 65 acres of public and private land, replacing outdated public housing with mid-rise and high-rise apartment buildings while preserving affordability for existing residents.
Swerdlow Group, in partnership with AJ Capital Partners, aims to create a pedestrian-friendly environment complete with retail giants such as Home Depot, Publix, and BJ’s Discount Store. Additionally, a new Tri-Rail station is proposed, offering residents convenient access to downtown Miami and beyond.
Balancing growth and community concerns
Unlike many Miami developments focused on luxury living, this project prioritizes affordability, ensuring that low and middle-income families are not displaced. The county’s Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program mandates that current public housing tenants will be relocated into new units at the same rental rates.
However, concerns over potential gentrification persist. Little Haiti has long been a cultural hub for Miami’s Haitian community, and past redevelopments in the area have sparked fears of displacement. While Swerdlow emphasizes that the project is designed to benefit working-class Miamians, community members remain cautious.
A vision for the future
Beyond housing, the plan envisions a thriving Little River neighborhood with ample green spaces, retail corridors, and essential services. Approximately 700,000 square feet will be dedicated to parks and public spaces, making it one of the most significant urban renewal projects in Miami-Dade history.
If approved, the full master plan, crafted by architectural firms Arquitectonica and PlusUrbia, will take around eight years to complete. The introduction of a special taxing district is also being considered to fund infrastructure upgrades, ensuring the area is equipped to support its growing population.
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