Related Group Proposes 390-Unit Affordable Housing Project in South Miami

The Perezes' Related Group announced plans to expand affordable housing in South Miami with the 390-unit Gallery at SoMi Parc, marking the second phase of a comprehensive redevelopment of the former South Miami Gardens Apartments public housing complex. By capitalizing on Florida's Live Local Act, Related aims to address the region's pressing need for affordable housing. This article delves into the project's specifics, alignment with state housing initiatives, and anticipated impact on the South Miami community.​

Project Overview:

• Development Details: The proposed 11-story building will feature 390 apartments, comprising one- and two-bedroom units. The plan includes 8,700 square feet of retail space and 501 parking spaces on a 3.3-acre site at 5949 Southwest 68th Street. ​

• Phase Two of Redevelopment: This initiative follows the successful completion of the 172-unit Residences at SoMi Parc, a mixed-income building that opened last year at 5961 Southwest 68th Street. Both projects are part of a broader effort to revitalize the 6.2-acre county-owned site that once housed the South Miami Gardens Apartments public housing complex. ​

Leveraging the Live Local Act:

• State Incentives: Enacted in 2023, Florida's Live Local Act encourages the development of affordable and workforce housing by offering incentives such as increased project density, tax breaks, and relaxed zoning regulations. Developers can build larger projects than typically permitted, provided at least 40% of the units cater to households earning no more than 120% of the area median income. ​

• Related's Strategic Use: Related Group has been proactive in utilizing the Live Local Act for several projects. In Miami's Little Havana, the firm plans to expand the Haley Sofge public housing complex with an additional 1,038 units across two 21-story towers and a 12-story building. Similarly, Related proposes replacing the Claude Pepper age-restricted public housing building in the Health District with a 398-unit development, all offered at below-market rents. ​

Community and Economic Impact:

• Affordable Housing Expansion: The Gallery at SoMi Parc is poised to significantly boost the availability of affordable housing in South Miami, addressing a critical shortage and providing modern living spaces for low to moderate-income residents.​

• Economic Revitalization: Including retail spaces and proximity to public transportation is expected to stimulate local economic activity, create job opportunities, and enhance the overall vibrancy of the community.​

Meeting Housing Needs:

Related Group's Gallery at SoMi Parc exemplifies a strategic approach to urban redevelopment by leveraging state incentives to meet community housing needs. As the second phase of a larger revitalization effort, this project underscores the potential of public-private partnerships in transforming underutilized spaces into thriving, affordable communities. With construction plans underway, South Miami residents can anticipate a significant enhancement in housing options and neighborhood amenities in the near future.