R9AG - Discuss 63rd St. Bridge Ops, Improve

Discussion Items - R9 AG

R9 AG DISCUSS/TAKE ACTION - UPDATE AND DISCUSSION ON THE 63RD STREET BRIDGE OPERATIONS AND LONG-TERM IMPROVEMENTS. Applicable Area:

COMMISSION MEMORANDUM

RECOMMENDATION

BACKGROUND/HISTORY

I would like to receive an update from the City Administration regarding the 63rd Street Bridge. The update should include the current hours of operation of the bridge (which I know vary based upon the day of the week and time of the day), as well as information on how the Administration is coordinating with the U.S. Coast Guard (“Coast Guard”) to potentially modify the bridge’s opening schedule in order to minimize impacts on vehicular traffic, based on the counter- proposal we were offered to improve the opening/closing times to adjust the bridge’s operational hours so that openings occur less frequently.

I would also request that the Administration provide information on the long-term plan for the bridge, including the potential design and construction of a new bascule bridge, flyover, or other project that would rarely need to open, thereby vastly reducing traffic disruptions. The frequent openings of the 63rd Street Bridge regularly result in major traffic snarls and delays, particularly during peak weekday commuting hours when residents and employees are traveling to and from work and/or school. Addressing these operational challenges is essential to improving traffic flow and quality of life for those who rely on this important east–west connection.

Accordingly, I would like to discuss with my colleagues, based upon the information provided and any request(s) from the City Administration, whether any further action or direction from the City Commission is necessary to support improvements to the bridge’s operation and long-term function.

ANALYSIS

FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT

N/A

Does this Ordinance require a Business Impact Estimate? (FOR ORDINANCES ONLY)

If applicable, the Business Impact Estimate (BIE) was published on: See BIE at: https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/city-hall/city-clerk/meeting-notices/

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CONCLUSION

Applicable Area

Citywide

Was this Agenda Item initially requested by a lobbyist which, as defined in Code Sec. 2-481, includes a principal engaged in lobbying? No

If so, specify the name of lobbyist(s) and principal(s):

Department

Office of Commissioner Tanya K. Bhatt

Sponsor(s)

Co-sponsor(s)

Condensed Title

Discuss/Take Action re: Update and Discussion on the 63rd Street Bridge (Bhatt)

Previous Action (For City Clerk Use Only)