A groundbreaking ceremony was held this morning for the third and final phase of The Underline.
Ken Griffin, the billionaire founder and CEO of Citadel, was scheduled to be in attendance. Griffin donated $5 million towards the project in 2021.
Phase 1 of the Underline is already complete. Phase 2 broke ground in 2021, and is scheduled for completion this year.
Phase 3 is the longest portion yet, running 7.36 miles to the Dadeland South Metrorail station Kiss and Ride Facility.
Features of Phase 3 will include numerous bioswales, green infrastructure, and below ground drainage that will help with stormwater flooding and runoff. Other notable project components include:
- The addition of 400,000 native plants to attract butterflies, bees and birds, including 3,000 trees
- Resting areas along the path with oolitic limestone boulders or benches
- Hydration stations at the amenities
- Bike repair stations in various locations
- Bike racks at all amenities
- Dog friendly with doggie bag dispensers at each amenity area and pet water bowls
- Trash and recycling receptacles throughout the corridor
- LED lighting that is Dark Sky compliant
- Green infrastructure: Bioswale native landscaping with natural infiltration planting
- Free WiFi service
- Public art
- Programmable areas for numerous public events, cultural, educational and health and wellness programs
- Micromobility hub
- Improvements to 24 intersections along US1
James Corner Field Operations is the landscape architect and design lead.
Phase 3 renderings and maps:
(images: James Corner Field Operations, courtesy of Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) in partnership with Friends of The Underline.)