Backed by a major investment and following years of public debate, Miami is moving forward with a project set to transform a strategic stretch of its urban waterfront, integrating hospitality, dining, entertainment, and public open spaces.
Miami’s downtown riverfront is preparing for a large-scale transformation. After an extensive administrative and political process that included public consultations and two referendums, the city has given the green light to a development aimed at redefining the relationship between the Miami River and its surrounding urban environment.
The Riverside Wharf Miami project will combine tourism infrastructure, recreational offerings, and publicly accessible spaces in a key area for circulation and economic activity within the city.
A Long-Awaited Urban Transformation
Riverside Wharf Miami marks a new chapter in the city’s evolving relationship with its river. After more than a decade of discussions, contract reviews, and voter approval, the project has officially entered its construction phase. According to El Nuevo Herald, the development is located between Interstate 95 and Northwest 1st Street, along a strategic downtown stretch with direct access to the waterfront.
The planned investment totals approximately US$350 million, with construction scheduled to progress steadily starting in January and to be completed in the first quarter of 2028. Given its scale and location, the project ranks among the most significant developments along the Miami River in recent years.
The project will occupy roughly 1.35 hectares and will take the form of a nine-story building integrating multiple uses. Key components include a luxury hotel with 167 rooms, designed to serve both leisure travelers and corporate events tied to the downtown business district.
Entertainment offerings will include both daytime and nighttime clubs, a rooftop pool overlooking the river, and social spaces designed for events and gatherings. A new marina will also be incorporated, strengthening the complex’s connection to nautical activity and the distinctive riverfront landscape.
Gastronomy as a Cornerstone of the Waterfront
Dining will play a central role in the development, with a significant portion of the project dedicated to restaurants and diverse culinary concepts. Among the confirmed partners is Garcia’s, a historic seafood market and restaurant located upriver, which will become part of the new complex.
The inclusion of a longstanding local brand aims to bridge the Miami River’s historical identity with a contemporary vision, appealing both to nearby residents and visitors seeking to experience the area.
Public Space, Connectivity, and River Access
Beyond its private components, the project places strong emphasis on urban integration. Developers have stated that the complex will form part of a continuous riverfront, featuring pedestrian walkways, open areas, and public access to the water’s edge.
As part of the agreement for the use of city-owned riverfront land, the development includes the construction of a new seawall, publicly accessible riverfront spaces, and the payment of a higher-than-standard lease fee.
With these conditions in place and strong voter backing, Riverside Wharf Miami is moving forward as one of the most ambitious urban projects currently underway in downtown Miami.
Projects like Riverside Wharf Miami illustrate how urban planning, real estate investment, and public policy converge to reshape cities over time. At Swann, we closely track these transformations, providing context and analysis on the developments redefining Miami’s waterfront and long-term urban value.
Explore more insights on emerging destinations, infrastructure-led growth, and real estate trends shaping global cities on the Swann blog.