BHA Approaches Its 11th Year
Coalition building and communication have been key themes during the past decade of the Brickell Homeowners Association's work toward enhancing the quality of life for the residential neighborhood.

As a result of regular communication and outreach efforts from BHA, public officials' attention to Brickell neighborhood concerns has grown over the years. Now, both City and County Commissioners representing the Brickell area, or representatives from their staffs, regularly attend monthly BHA Board of Directors meetings, hear BHA issues and come back with answers (some more satisfactory than others). Key governmental departments are also in more frequent contact with BHA, listening to our complaints and responding with what solutions, if any, are within their power or budget to offer.

We are heartened by the City's Department of Public Works' effort to remedy the irrigation and landscaping of the Brickell medians, an ongoing concern that has never been met with full success. (See article on page 13.)

The City of Miami Police have been regular partners at the side of BHA, rarely missing the monthly BHA meetings. Most recently, the police presented a day-long security seminar aimed at addressing crime and safety matters particular to the Brickell high-rise community. About 40 Brickell area security managers and building managers participated in the informative program.

Coalitions with our neighboring associations, such as the Brickell Area Association (BAA) representing businesses and the Miami-Roads Neighborhood Civic Association are also critical for our success. This past year the BAA joined as co-host of the annual pre-election Candidates Forum, hosted by the Roads homeowners and the BHA for eight years. The three groups will continue to mobilize on areas of common concern.

To further expand its outreach, the Brickell Homeowners Association recently joined the Coalition of Miami-Dade Community Associations and the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce in efforts to ensure that Brickell neighborhood interests are represented at many levels.

Communications will remain key, both with elected and appointed governmental officials, Brickell residents and the community at large. This is the 29th edition of BHA News, bigger than ever and made viable with the advertising support of community business leaders.
The new Brickell Homeowners Association website at www.brickellhomeowners.com takes BHA communications to the next level, enabling unprecedented reach and comprehensive information readily available to all.

President's Column
By T. Sinclair (Tory) Jacobs
Everybody Talks About Traffic, But Nobody Does Anything About It Until Now!
The piecemeal, ineffective approaches to Brickell's traffic congestion that have increasingly frustrated both residents and visitors, may soon be supplanted by a long overdue comprehensive approach that includes not only Brickell and West Brickell, but also the downtown area north of the River up to the Performing Arts Center.

Our rookie District 2 City Commissioner, Johnny Winton, has brought together an alphabet-soup of overlapping entities to get serious about this problem that prompts much palaver, but little else.

The linchpins of Commissioner Winton's approach are to locate a tunnel under the Miami River between I-95 and Brickell Avenue and to initiate a long-term, holistic planning process.

In the past, so many traffic studies have looked at individual intersections, not taking into account the "squeeze-the-balloon" impact of changes down the road. Studies have tended to be based on historical data, not factoring in new projects, which in the dynamic Brickell area, is essential.

We're anticipating a long-term view of the traffic movement needs of a growing metropolis, that will be periodically updated and that will be incrementally implemented, not waiting interminably for completion and final approval of the plans by all interested parties. We see a sense of urgency with real energy going to bat.

Here are a few thoughts that might contribute to the considerations:

1. Conceptualize from the perspective of moving people, goods and services rather than just vehicles.
2. Include the possibilities of water-based modes, taking advantage of the City's concentration along the bayfront and the River.
3. Be especially mindful of the impact of major, spasmodic entertainment and sports events; the needs of attendees and the needs of the great majority who should not be inconvenienced.
4. Consider expanding street capacity by scheduling selected trucking functions at night.
5. FDOT appears to be focused more on increasing vehicle flow than on convenience and quality of life. FDOT should recognize the need for multiple traffic signals on Brickell between the River and Rickenbacker Causeway. There are traffic signals at every intersection on US 1 north of the River. We need traffic calming to facilitate access and egress for high-rise residents. FDOT should be encouraged to give more consideration to the aesthetic aspects of their designs.
6. Include use of advanced Electronic Traffic Management Systems and Uniformed Traffic Officers (not necessarily police officers). Special attention should be provided for construction sites. Often off-duty police officers are employed who just sit in their air-conditioned cruisers.
7. Enhanced public (or quasi-public) transportation, including neighborhood jitneys and shuttles. Encourage the use of both mass transit and pedestrian locomotion.
8. Build tunnel to the Port of Miami to get the trucks off downtown streets.
9. Include landscaping and decorative lighting with irrigation and quality maintenance of medians and rights of way.
10. Eliminate all preconceived concepts for traffic configurations at Brickell, SE 7th and SE 8th Streets. Gridlock when the Brickell Bridge is raised is, perhaps, the prime immediate challenge.
11. Include education. Modify the public's expectations to be realistic, to recognize the realities of increasing urbanization with more 24-hour life and more pedestrian activity.

Just as in the old days when ranchers and farmers differed in their approach to land use, there may be some differences between residents and commuters. One mitigating factor should be the attraction of shops, entertainment and eateries to postpone heading for home. Perhaps we'll convert a few commuters to residents.

It seems that we do not need everybody talking about traffic (that hasn't worked)just the right person and this is surely the right time.
Thank you, Commissioner Winton. God's Speed!

For & Against: Taking Stands
BHA directors have taken positions on a number of neighborhood concerns over the past few months, all aimed at protecting and enhancing the Brickell community.

Against: Sale of Brickell Park
Incredible as it may sound, the City of Miami Commissioners voted to sell Brickell Park, a small swatch of green located on the bayside of Brickell Avenue between the Sheraton Hotel and First Presbyterian Church. BHA directors joined the Brickell Area Association in its opposition to the selling off of the public space, which many residents find hard to swallow given the scarcity of any remaining open land in the Brickell/Downtown area.

The 2.5-acre parcel was originally given to the City by the Brickell family in the 1920s. It seems that the City came to the decision to sell the park as a remedy for a lawsuit between it and the Brickell family. Proceeds of the sale are to go toward the purchase of the land where the Miami Circle was discovered. The mysterious, curious stone circle was unearthed near the mouth of the Miami River and only a short distance to the north of Brickell Park. However, both the BHA and members of the BAA say that the Miami Circle property is no substitute for the open park. The Circle is likely to eventually be enclosed or part of a study center, certainly protected and not at all like an open park in accessibility or usage.

A number of other organizations, including Dade Heritage Trust and the Greater Miami Chamber's New World Center Committee, are asking the City Commissioners to reconsider its action.

For: Brickell Key Bridge Enhancements
BHA directors supported a plan to enhance the Brickell Key Bridge with decorative lighting, planters, landscaping and pavers. The Brickell Key Master Association, which will pay for and maintain the improvements made to the bridge, described their intentions to improve the "appearance and safety of an important City of Miami asset within the Brickell Area." The enhancements will also undoubtedly make sales and rentals even more desirable on the exclusive island, which is now home to six apartment and condo buildings and future home to at least one other condo and the 329-room Mandarin Hotel.

Against: Vizcaya Station Location for Miami Children's Museum
The BHA joined its neighbors of the Miami Roads Neighborhood Civic Association in their opposition to the construction of the Miami Children's Museum on the Vizcaya Metrorail Station parking lot.
The Roads group is concerned about the impact the proposed 50,000-square-foot attraction would have on their neighborhood - a quiet, residential area of older, well-kept homes. Access routes, traffic from the projected 250,000 annual visitors, the small number of parking spaces (some 22 total for the facility) and the contemporary building design are among the chief issues that have created a stir over the plan.

The County okayed the museum's development on the Metrorail's parking lot more than two years ago thinking they had found an innovative use for little-used land at a location that might help increase Metrorail ridership. The museum had been searching for a location to build its new facility after its home at the Miracle Center, and the Bakery Center before that, didn't work out.

Planes, Trains & Automobiles: County Seeks Input on Miami-Dade's Transportation Future
The Citizen's Transportation Advisory Committee has three public hearings scheduled to gather input from citizens about Miami-Dade's transportation future. All are urged to "come prepared to share ideas on funding, technology and system expansion."

The March 8th public hearing focus was on transit; April 12th will cover highways and expressways; and May 10th will focus on surface transportation to airports and the seaport, as well as special transportation services. Miami-Dade Television is televising each of the sessions on cable channel 26 (AT&T cable subscribers).

Residents are invited to participate in person at the hearings at Government Center, 111 NW 1st Street, in the Commission Chambers, where each person will be allotted two to three minutes to speak. Or, residents can submit their comments by calling (305) 375-1843, faxing to (305) 375-4950 or via email to MPO@co.miami-dade.fl.us.

The Citizen's Transportation Advisory Committee is charged with gathering input to provide to the Board of County Commissioners.

Census Takers Needed in Brickell Area
The U.S. Census Office invites Brickell area residents to join the head count effort in the Brickell neighborhood, which needs part-time workers. The job pays $14 hour, the hours are flexible, part-time and on evenings and weekends. Plus, workers are assigned to their own neighborhoods. Call (305) 883-7850 for more details. Time is short so anyone interested is asked to call right away.

In the Dark?
See a street light out on a public right-of-way? Please contact City of Miami Street Lighting Engineer David Hernandez by calling (305) 416-1220. Be sure to furnish the nearest street address.

Aircraft Noise Abatement: At Last, Some Progress To Report
By T. Sinclair (Tory) Jacobs
In an effort to focus attention on the need to accelerate implementation of the Miami International Airport Noise Abatement Program, Commissioner Jimmy Morales arranged a meeting chaired by Mayor Alex Penelas with attendance by FAA and Miami-Dade Aviation Department (MDAD) executives.

The meeting served as a catalyst for both MDAD and FAA to agree to move forward with the long-awaited test of Flight Track Management. Targeted to start the week of June 3, 2000, Nighttime, East Flow Departures will be utilized from both runways in service on due-east flight paths and will be held on tract until over water before being released for turns onto course.

Provided this 180-day Flight Tract Management test goes as anticipated and the concurrent Environmental Assessment Studies are supportive, as early as May 2001, it may be incrementally expanded for daytime departures.

Results of the current West Flow Departure Test should be available in the late spring.

New procedures for arrivals from the water approach, including designated flight tracts and higher elevations during the earlier segments of the approach are being promulgated for late summer start.
Currently, the Control Tower (under FAA) releases flight control immediately after takeoff, so pilots fan out toward their ultimate headings. By limiting flight paths to two designated tracks (for east flow nighttime departures) over minimum residential areas, and by holding aircraft on course until over the water, neighborhoods should experience considerably less noise pollution.

Also, raising the altitude of flights as they approach and depart Miami International Airport ­ though causing steeper ascents and descents ­ will lessen the impact of aircraft noise.

Jeffrey R. Bunting, MDAD's Chief of Aircraft Noise and Environmental Planning, has been authorized to add four analysts to his staff to facilitate the ANONS and complaint programs.

All of these initiatives are encouraging, however, the pace of progress still frustrates all concerned. Continued vigilance is in order to ensure that these commitments and timetables are maintained.

Post-Election: Brickell Neighborhood PAC Results
Thanks to support from concerned neighbors, the Brickell Neighborhood PAC was successful in seeing its endorsed candidate for Miami City Commission District 2, Johnny Winton, elected to office.

While the PAC's position against Amendments 1 and 3 were not supported by the overall electorate, Brickell area neighbors overwhelmingly agreed with the Brickell PAC's position (65% on Amendment #1 and 80% Amendment #3).

Amendment #1, the so-called "strong mayor" amendment, was overturned by the courts and the election results thrown out in February 2000.

Brickell PAC steering committee volunteers pledged to continue in their efforts to preserve the residential ambiance of the Brickell neighborhood and have Brickell views represented by elected officials.

2101-2105 Brickell Bay Development
The Atlantis Condominium Association and at least one resident have filed lawsuits against the proposed development asking for the court to set aside the City's approval of the plans.

1900 Brickell Avenue / Plastic Surgeon's Office
Residents were alarmed when a sign announcing a spa went up in front of the property that had been promised to be a limited-use, doctor's office.

The City's Zoning and Planning Department reports they are trying to determine if the spa would be a violation of the covenants agreed upon when the initial zoning variances were granted. City Manager Donald Warshaw and Commissioner Johnny Winton are looking into it. The BHA will pursue on all fronts to keeping the spa and commercial encroachment out of residential Brickell.

Wainwright Park Improvements in the Offing
Park officials are conducting a review of Alice Wainwright Park, its amenities and needed upgrades. Brickell residents' views on desired improvements are sought by Park Manager Pat Quintana. Call her at (305) 856-6801.

Brickell Medians Get Attention, Funds
The effort to bring Brickell Avenue medians up to snuff to reflect the area's true grandeur and uniqueness continues.

The City identified $50,000 that it can devote to hiring a landscape consultant firm, replacing the failed median irrigation system, and renewing the landscaping. The funds will match a grant application for the same amount that the City has submitted to the Florida Department of Transportation for a State Highway Beautification Grant. The grant is still being reviewed.

BHA Officers Re-elected
The five Brickell Homeowners Association officers of the Board of Directors were re-elected to another one-year term at the BHA Annual Meeting in February in a unanimous show of support from BHA representatives.

Tory Jacobs (Brickell 25) will continue to serve as president; Veena Panjabi (The Palace) will continue to serve as vice president; Norman Mininberg (Brickell Place I) will continue to serve as treasurer; Mac Seligman (Brickell Townhouse) will continue as secretary; and Herb Bailey (Brickell Forest) will continue to serve as Chairperson.

Brickell Area to Get New Entertainment & Shopping Venues

Cocowalk-like Development Planned
Terremark and Millennium Group unveiled a new development that they envision "as a true retail and entertainment destination for the area." Named "Brickell Commons," the complex will include an open atrium surrounded by three stories of shops, entertainment, restaurants and movie theaters-similar in design to Cocowalk in Coconut Grove.

Located on the west side of South Miami Avenue between 7th and 8th Streets, the project will be built in two phases and will include a 20-screen theater, entertainment, retail, parking structures and residential towers. It will include specialty stores such as Tower Records and Barnes & Noble, plus 1,000 spaces for parking in the first phase.

Terremark Executive Vice President Ed Jacobsen presented the renderings and plans to BHA directors at their January meeting. The developers are currently pursuing the required "Major Use Special Permit" and hope to break ground by the end of this year.

Upscale "Villa" to Enhance South Miami Avenue
An open-air retail center in a village-like setting is another development underway in the Brickell area. This "lifestyle center for the home, family and community," as described by George Giebel of Constructa, will be located in the 900 block of South Miami Avenue.

The center will feature amenities that revolve around the home and family. It will include furniture, bed and bath stores, a gourmet supermarket, bookstore, three to four white tablecloth restaurants..."an upscale tenant mix," Giebel said. He said the developers are focusing equally on public spaces, with their renderings depicting low-rise villa-like buildings in lush green settings, complete with an aviary and fountains. A restaurant will surround a banyan tree and they plan to maintain the mature oak trees that dot the area. The block currently contains small businesses and residences.

The second phase of the project will include a moderate priced hotel tower of about 12 stories with 280 to 290 rooms. There will be underground parking for 300 vehicles plus 800 spaces above the two levels of retail.

BHA Website Launched
Expanding its communications program and enhancing residents' ability to stay informed, get involved and be heard, the BHA has launched its website at www.brickellhomeowners.com.