We asked eighteen questions to the ten Miami Beach candidates ahead of the November 7 election. As Miami Beach votes for a new Mayor and three Commissioners, we spotlight their views on the critical issue of transportation and mobility. Their responses will shape the city’s future—see what they have to say. [View Mayoral Candidate Responses Here]
The West Avenue project has been stalled despite its critical importance to the community. Designed to provide desperately needed bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and lush landscaping with shade trees, the project also includes stormwater upgrades such as modest street raising and multiple stormwater pumps to enhance climate resiliency. This community has one of the highest percentages of people walking, biking, and using public transit. In a 2012 agreement with FDOT, the city promised to build bicycle lanes along the street. Most buildings in this area have off-street parking garages, lots, and driveways. There are also numerous private garages, including a nearly 1,000-space garage on West Avenue at 10th Street. Additionally, the city has offered to build a public garage to address some resident concerns. Are you committed to taking action to initiate construction for this long-awaited project?
Andres Asion, Group 4: Yes.
The current condition of West Avenue is simply unacceptable for our community. We can’t just sit back and wait anymore. I’m fully committed to not only beautifying the street but also making it one of the most resilient in the city. It’s high time we turn promises into action.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Yes.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: Yes.
Yes, I believe the West Avenue project has been held up too long and would support moving this forward quickly. The project will be a positive transformation for everyone that lives in the neighborhood.
David Suarez, Group 5: Yes.
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Yes.
As a resident of West Avenue and someone who has been actively involved as a resident in the planning of this project, I am committed to moving this forward. The traffic patterns and planning on West Avenue currently does not make sense given the high density residential area where we should prioritize walkability and biking. There are some areas of West Avenue where the sidewalk is impassable if two people are walking, yet have five lanes of roadway, with no protected bikelanes.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Yes.
It is critically important that this project move forward. This project will alleviate traffic congestion, increase the safe mobility of all residents, and elevate our quality of life. Our city desperately needs improvements in our community’s transportation network. I am committed when I am Commissioner to supporting legislation and infrastructure that will support these improvements. I have spoken to hundreds of residents on this journey who share your concerns and desire to create a city that is safe and friendly for pedestrians and cyclists. One which has world-class public transportation, like our city deserves.
The issue of Rapid Transit Zoning (RTZ) has become a significant topic in the election due to misconceptions circulating in the community. It’s worth noting that Miami Beach’s historic districts are exempt from RTZ, and the city already meets the minimum FAR requirements, except for a small area near City Hall which is mostly city-owned land zoned GU. Both county and city planning and zoning staff have confirmed much of this information. Given this context, would you support the county’s SMART Plan Beach Corridor, which could include an elevated rubber-tired rapid transit line connecting South Beach’s densely populated and transit-demanding area to downtown’s transit hubs?
Andres Asion, Group 4: No.
On the topic of the county’s SMART Plan Beach Corridor, I have a clear stance. While the goal of linking South Beach with downtown Miami is commendable, I share residents’ concerns about just extending the Metro Mover to 5th Street without a more comprehensive plan. Given that the county is already planning to reduce bus routes in Miami Beach, I believe we should first focus on improving and expanding public transit within our city before endorsing external plans. I am also in favor of future-forward solutions. Partnering with tech companies like Google and Waymo for autonomous public transportation could be a game-changer for our community, filling in the gaps of our current system and perhaps even offering more efficient and environmentally friendly transit solutions. Overall, while the SMART Plan Beach Corridor has its merits, the immediate needs of Miami Beach residents should be our first priority. Only once we have a robust internal transit system should we consider linking up with larger, county-wide initiatives.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: No.
While we are in desperate need of better public transportation AND missing middle/workforce housing options, I believe the County’s plan, as proposed, will have unintended consequences specifically in Miami Beach. Historically our city has not been able to adequately manage developers’ plans who ask for an inch, but take a mile. I am also not keen on the idea of yet another type of transit being introduced when we are moving forward with the most budget- and eco-friendly options of bus rapid transit. These buses should be transitioned to EVs asap. Coming across the Julia Tuttle, at the site of biggest single employer (Mt. Sinai), and connecting to new express trolley routes to bring workers to the big hotels on Collins (north) and the hospitality district in South Beach is my top priority. This can then be expanded to BRT lanes on both the MacArthur and 79th St. causeways at significantly lower cost and infrastructure upheaval.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: I believe the SMART plan needs further evaluation.
David Suarez, Group 5: Unsure.
Will need to make absolutely sure MB is exempt, even from a possible county commission vote.
Joe Magazine, Group 6:
I am a huge proponent of mass transit, but think the project in its current form is not feasible, both from a practicality standpoint and financially. I do not believe there is adequate connectivity to transit stations, making the project difficult to accommodate first and last mile, which will hinder ridership. Other alternatives I would look to explore is BRT along an expanded MacArthur Causeway shoulder, electric ferries, and electric shuttles.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Yes.
I support upgraded public transportation, and would be open to the discussion. I’m particularly fond of transit options like Freebee and trolleys. They are beneficial to the city because they reduce the amount of cars on the streets and carbon emissions.
How frequently do you ride a bicycle (or micromobility device) in Miami Beach, either for transportation or recreation? (Possible answers: Daily, Weekly, Monthly, Rarely, Never)
Andres Asion, Group 4: Weekly.
I ride a bicycle in Miami Beach on a weekly basis. I’m a strong advocate for promoting cycling as a sustainable and healthy mode of transportation within our city. Whether it’s commuting to local meetings or enjoying our beautiful surroundings, I understand the importance of creating a bike-friendly community that encourages safe and convenient cycling options for everyone.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Weekly.
I used to do triathlons and rode far more frequently but stopped for a few reasons, not least of which was seeing too many people in the tri community being killed while out on training rides or runs. When elected, I look forward to being able to commute from my home in NoBe to City Hall via bike on the Beach Walk.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: Daily (Bicycle & eScooter)
David Suarez, Group 5: Daily (eScooter)
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Weekly
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Weekly.
How frequently do you ride public transportation within Miami-Dade County? (Possible answers: Daily, Weekly, Monthly, Rarely, Never)
Andres Asion, Group 4:
Living in Miami Beach, where we are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and accessible community, I understand the importance of public transportation. While I typically rely on my personal vehicle due to the demands of my schedule, I do make an effort to utilize public transportation within Miami Beach whenever possible. It’s essential that we continue to improve our local transit options to provide convenient and efficient mobility solutions for our residents and visitors.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Never.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: Rarely.
David Suarez, Group 5: Never.
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Monthly.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Monthly.
If you had high school-aged children, would you feel comfortable allowing them to bike alone to Miami Beach Senior High School from your home?
Andres Asion, Group 4: Yes
While the answer to whether I’d let my high-school aged children bike alone to Miami Beach Senior High School largely depends on the distance from home to school, overall, I’d lean toward ‘yes.’ Miami Beach has been working to become more bike-friendly, and safety is a top priority for me. I believe that, for the most part, it would be a good experience for them and also help instill a sense of independence and responsibility.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: No.
There is not a unified and cohesive bike path network yet, and what is in place is insufficiently marked/protected in too many places. There is absolutely no respect for cyclists by vehicular drivers, and until we have better enforcement to try to change that, and a better bike infrastructure, riding from NoBe to MBHS at rush hour wouldn’t be worth the significant risk.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: No
David Suarez, Group 5: Yes
Joe Magazine, Group 6: No
No, absolutely not. This is often the barometer of success I use for many different measures in our city, and it is disheartening to live in an outdoor oriented beach community and not feel comfortable riding bicycles.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: No
In the past, there have been requests for the creation of a full-time Bicycle-Pedestrian Coordinator role within the Transportation Department. This role would focus on implementing master plans and enhancing the safety and usability of bike and pedestrian infrastructure. To date, this position has not been created. If elected, would you support the establishment of such a position?
Andres Asion, Group 4:
Before committing to the creation of a full-time Bicycle-Pedestrian Coordinator role within the Transportation Department, I’d like to understand why these responsibilities are not already covered by existing roles within city planning or other departments. Creating a new full-time position would have budgetary implications, and I’d want to ensure that this role would bring unique value, over and above what is currently being done. However, if it’s evident that there’s a gap in our planning and that this role would significantly enhance safety and usability for bikers and pedestrians, then I would absolutely support creating the position.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Yes
Mitch Novick, Group 5: Yes
David Suarez, Group 5: Yes
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Yes
Yes, as a progressive city with great weather advantages, we should be looking at every opportunity possible to urban plan in a progressive way that reduces emissions, bicycles being at the top of that list. Looking at cities like Paris that were once a traffic gridlock and now a bicycle mecca, the change is possible but has to be prioritized. It will take some of the chaotic feeling of overbearing traffic off of our roadways as well.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Yes
I believe implementing a Bicycle-Pedestrian Coordinator Role would be beneficial for Miami Beach. It would improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians, enhance mobility and connectivity, and promote eco-friendly transportation. Implementing this role within our city would help Elevate Miami Beach and make our city a more attractive and livable place for residents and visitors alike.
In 2015, the city adopted a Bicycle Master Plan aimed at developing an interconnected network of bicycle lanes to broaden mobility options. Eight years have passed since its adoption; how would you assess the city’s progress in implementing the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan? (Possible Answers 1 [Not Very Effective] to 5 [Very Effective])
Andres Asion, Group 4: 3
While the city adopted the Bicycle Master Plan in 2015 with the admirable goal of creating an interconnected network of bike lanes, the pace of implementation has been frustratingly slow. It often feels like initiatives in our city take decades to come to fruition. I recognize that it’s a complicated issue. We have limited street width, and there are competing demands for parking, landscaping, and road space. However, given the increasing importance of bike lanes—not just for bicycles but also for the proliferation of scooters—it’s critical that we find a way to expedite these improvements for the safety and well-being of all residents. The reality is, we’re reaching a point where something has to give. We can’t have unlimited parking, lush landscaping, and state-of-the-art bike lanes all in the same limited space. Priorities have to be set, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that bike and scooter lanes should be near the top of that list for the sake of public safety.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: 2
Mitch Novick, Group 5: 2
David Suarez, Group 5: It has been poorly executed. It needs to move forward more efficiently.
Joe Magazine, Group 6: 2
Very ineffective. To my knowledge, there has been extremely limited, if any, true connectivity and certainly does not provide for a safe and contiguous path.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: 3
What specific measures would you take to accelerate the implementation of the bicylcle network as outlined in the Master Plan?
Andres Asion, Group 4: To accelerate the implementation of the bicycle network as outlined in the Master Plan, my approach would be to cut through the red tape that often delays such initiatives. I’d work closely with city planners, transportation officials, and other stakeholders to identify the bottlenecks that are slowing down progress. We’d then take targeted action to eliminate these roadblocks, whether they’re bureaucratic, financial, or logistical. The aim would be to get shovels in the ground as quickly as possible and deliver the safe, efficient bike network that Miami Beach residents have been waiting for.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: I’d like to see a comprehensive review of the plan from eight years ago with an eye to reevaluating the priorities, since a lot has changed in the past decade. Then the easiest-to-implement should be done asap so residents can start seeing change for the good, as planning and permitting gets underway for the bigger projects.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: I would suggest hiring a bicycle-pedestrian coordinator.
David Suarez, Group 5: Weekly Staff meeting with the Bicycle-Pedestrian Coordinator to help facilitate the master plan.
Joe Magazine, Group 6: The master plan must be more clearly defined, committed to, and a specific commissioner take on responsibility of the champion of this project. I would also look to reallocate or dedicate a personnel resource in a role akin to a full-time Bicycle – Pedestrian Coordinator.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: As your commissioner, I will prioritize expediting the completion of the Master plan. This can be done by requiring monthly updates on progress, from the City Manager’s Office at commission meetings so that accountability and transparency on the progress of the plan are frequent and known to the public. This level of accountability will allow us to move forward or address issues as they arise.
Would you be open to exploring options for fixed rapid mass transit that connects Miami Beach to the mainland’s transit hubs?
Andres Asion, Group 4: Yes
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Yes
Mitch Novick, Group 5: Yes
David Suarez, Group 5: Unsure
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Yes
Yes, though for reasons stated above, I do not believe the current iteration of the County’s Baylink / metromover is the correct project.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Yes
Yes, but there are numerous conditions, standards, and thresholds that need to be considered when exploring this complex issue.
Numerous cities, including Tampa in Florida, have created eBike voucher/rebate programs to promote bicycle ridership. Such programs aim to improve street safety, promote alternative means of transportation, offer more equitable options, and alleviate traffic congestion. Considering that a portion of the resort taxes (Quality of Life) are meant to offset resident impact, would you support using a portion of the record resort tax revenue to launch an eBike voucher or rebate program in Miami Beach to encourage micro-mobility?
Andres Asion, Group 4:
Miami Beach is already ahead of the curve with our Citi Bike program, which currently offers 100 e-bikes for use at the same cost as regular bikes. This is unique compared to other cities, and plans are already underway to double the e-bike fleet to 200. Given this, before jumping into a separate eBike voucher or rebate program, I’d be in favor of further expanding our existing e-bike options through Citi Bike to gauge its effectiveness in promoting micro-mobility, improving street safety, and alleviating traffic congestion. If the expanded program proves successful, we can then consider additional incentives or programs, potentially funded through a portion of the resort tax revenue dedicated to improving the quality of life for our residents.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Yes
Mitch Novick, Group 5: Yes
Yes, subject to meeting eligibility requirements, including income restrictions.
David Suarez, Group 5: Yes
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Yes
Yes, this is prominent in other cities. As an owner of an electric bike, this is a great way to promote ridership. Though, we must ensure our roadways are safe to accommodate these forms of transportation through better bike path planning before putting people in harm’s way.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Yes
I support the concept of an eBike voucher/rebate program. I would have to say that Miami Beach does a great job of having bicycles in convenient locations all around the city, a huge example would be Citi Bikes. It would be beneficial to incentivize our residents through
Would you support community events that celebrate and promote biking and other forms of micro-mobility?
Andres Asion, Group 4: Yes
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Yes
We used to have a bikes-only event monthly on Washington and it was great fun; that should be the bare minimum. Celebrating and elevating these forms of mobility can also serve to elevate our brand and redirect some of our tourism to more healthy lifestyle visitors.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: No
Not cyclovia.
David Suarez, Group 5: Yes
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Yes
Yes, my family and I attended the Washington Avenue Bicicleta program that shut off Washington Avenue for an afternoon of biking. I would look to better coordinate and promote programs like this.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Yes
Cities across the United States are increasingly recognizing the importance of providing safe and accessible transportation options for all residents, including bicyclists. One example is the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts, which has passed an ordinance mandating that all major street renovations must include protected bicycle facilities. This ordinance aims to promote safer streets, encourage bicycling, and reduce traffic congestion. Would you support implementing a similar ordinance in Miami Beach that requires all major street renovations to include protected bicycle facilities?
Andres Asion, Group 4: Yes
Yes, I would support an ordinance in Miami Beach requiring all major street renovations to include protected facilities for both bicycles and scooters. However, it’s important to consider the various factors at play, such as street width, parking needs, and pedestrian safety. Given the growing popularity of scooters in our city, it’s crucial that our infrastructure evolves to accommodate this new mode of transportation alongside traditional bicycles. We need to strike a balanced approach that prioritizes the safety of all road users, including those on bikes and scooters, without sacrificing essential amenities like parking. Therefore, before making any decisions, a thorough evaluation and community consultation process should take place to ensure the needs and concerns of all Miami Beach residents are adequately addressed.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Yes
Mitch Novick, Group 5: Yes
David Suarez, Group 5: Yes
For major streets.
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Yes
Yes, while not committing to the specific legislation in Mass, its clear government needs to help with incentives to promote a network for safe and responsible riding. Another way to do that is requiring larger private developments to include bicycle infrastructure.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Yes
Implementing a similar ordinance in Miami Beach would improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians, enhance mobility and connectivity, and promote eco-friendly transportation. Implementing this within our city would help Elevate Miami Beach and make our city a more attractive and livable place for residents and visitors alike.
Some elected leaders have expressed concerns about the Beachwalk, stating it’s dangerous due to speeding bicyclists. This could lead to restrictions on bicycle usage along the 7-mile pathway. Have you encountered any data supporting these claims, and if so, how would you address these safety concerns?
Andres Asion, Group 4:
I’ve personally seen the issue of speeding cyclists and e-bikes on the Beachwalk, and I share the concern for pedestrian safety. However, limiting bicycle usage isn’t necessarily the solution. In places like Bal Harbour, they’ve created separate paths for bicycles, which could be an avenue worth exploring for Miami Beach. Given the safety advantages of riding on the Beachwalk compared to the streets, it would be prudent to look into expanding bike paths along the beach to create a safer environment for everyone. I’d advocate for a comprehensive safety study to gather data and consult with local residents and stakeholders. This will enable us to make informed decisions, whether that’s creating separate lanes, adding speed bumps, or increasing signage and education about shared pathway etiquette.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Yes
I regularly walk, run, bike on the Beachwalk and LOVE it, going from Government Cut to Haulover Cut. I have more near miss stories than I care to think of, narrowly escaping injury by irresponsible people on bikes (and yes, I’m an avid cyclist!), scooters and other electrified vehicles, skates/skateboards, etc.I’ve always been struck by how simple and clever the beachwalk is north of us, where there’s an elevated, narrower path for pedestrians, and a MUCH wider and lower path, close to the buildings, where cyclists and emergency vehicles are able to travel safely. Parts of our Beachwalk are sufficiently wide, but many aren’t, and there is no mutual respect between all the users of the amenity. Moreover, I have seen egregious irresponsibility of individuals ranging from not having dogs on leashes, or LITERAL MOTORCYCLES using the path as a road. We need to have far more active park ranger presence to enforce safety laws, and we should explore the ability to widen the path and separate pedestrian from all other vehicular traffic, wherever feasible.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: No
David Suarez, Group 5: I have seen it firsthand, however I would not be in favor prohibiting bicyclists on the beach walk.
Joe Magazine, Group 6: I have not encountered data, but have heard resident concerns. This issue does deserve a holistic and comprehensive discussion as not hinder the exact types of activities we are looking to promote, but rather they be done in a safe, friendly, and efficient manner.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: No
I have not seen data and it does not seem to be readily available.
In January 2022, a new street layout was introduced for Ocean Drive. Do you think it effectively meets the needs of bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists?
Andres Asion, Group 4:
I’m generally in favor of the current layout for Ocean Drive, particularly in how it accommodates bicycles and pedestrians. However, I think there’s room for optimization in terms of traffic flow. Currently, vehicles travel from North to South. I believe that switching the direction from South to North would create a more efficient loop and integrate well with 5th Street. Such a change could streamline the experience for motorists. By having cars turn North at 13th Street and making both lanes one-way, we could improve traffic flow and ease the transition onto Washington Avenue.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Yes
Mitch Novick, Group 5: Yes
David Suarez, Group 5: Yes
Joe Magazine, Group 6: No
While I applaud the protected bike lanes, they are often removed for lengthy periods of time without proper communication. To truly promote any type of activity or behavior, consistency is key and this must be a more permanent and reliable longer-term solution.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: No
Would you support including a protected bike lane in the redesign as part of the upcoming GO Bond project?
Andres Asion, Group 4: Yes.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: Yes
Mitch Novick, Group 5: Yes
For Ocean Drive.
David Suarez, Group 5: Yes
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Yes
Generally yes. While that does not mean on every single road in our city, this would be a smart high level comprehensive plan.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Yes
In the past year, traffic light “optimization” has become a buzzword. Over the summer, the County reprogrammed many traffic lights. This has led to long waits for pedestrians crossing streets and situations where bicyclists do not receive a green signal at all, as most intersections do not detect bikes. Do you think that traffic light optimization is an effective solution to the city’s mobility issues?
Andres Asion, Group 4:
I believe that the term ‘traffic light optimization’ needs to evolve beyond mere reprogramming. We should look toward adopting AI technology for our intersections. This would allow us to move away from antiquated timers to a more dynamic system where AI can detect the number of cars waiting at an intersection and adjust the light cycles accordingly. The same technology could be applied to detect bicycles, ensuring they also get a green signal when needed. This could be a more comprehensive solution to the city’s mobility issues.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: No
It’s a start, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Signalization needs to be responsive to alternate modes of transportation, whether via AI or old-fashioned functional buttons.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: No
I have experienced negative effects from the recent optimization. I frequently ride my electric scooter to Whole Foods and now I find that I have to wait at least 2x longer to cross the street.
David Suarez, Group 5: Yes and No
To cars yes, but not for bicycles
Joe Magazine, Group 6: Yes.
Traffic light optimization is needed, but I have seen firsthand several areas where this ‘optimization’ has made traffic much worse. One example being tenth and Alton where there seems to have been added an additional cycle of red lights, actually worsening traffic.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Yes
Light optimization offers an effective solution to Miami Beach’s mobility issues by improving traffic flow and reducing congestion. By optimizing traffic signals and utilizing smart technology, we can enhance the efficiency of transportation, reduce commute times, and decrease carbon emissions. This approach aligns with the city’s sustainability goals and can lead to a smoother and more environmentally friendly mobility experience for residents and tourists.
How do you plan to prioritize policies that encourage bikes, walking, and public transit?
Andres Asion, Group 4: My focus is on taking the well-thought-out plans we have and actually putting them into action. It’s crucial to strike a balance, making our city safer and more friendly for bikes, scooters, and other alternative modes of transportation. So how do we do that? First, we speed up the rollout of our existing Bicycle Master Plan, ensuring that bike lanes are accessible, safe, and well-maintained. Second, it’s not just about plans but about timely action. We’ve done enough talking; it’s time to start doing. Whether it’s improving pedestrian zones, or making public transit more efficient and accessible, the goal is to move from planning to executing. In summary, we have a lot of work ahead, but by prioritizing and acting on these policies, we can make Miami Beach a safer and more convenient place for everyone.
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: As a city, we are at an inflection point where we want to be less dependent on cars and combustion engines, but don’t have the infrastructure or cultural mindset to embrace that shift yet. All new public works projects should have, as part of the criteria, a review for non-vehicular mobility. Are the sidewalks wide enough to allow necessary signage but also allow pedestrians or folks using ADA devices to navigate them safely? Is there a bike lane? Where are the drains placed so as to not send cyclists flying? Can we retool our trolley routes to be more direct and useful to a bigger part of our community? Are shade trees covering the most-walked routes, where feasible? Are we advocating for our city and residents with the county when they seek to inflict a project on our neighborhoods? We need to have open and regular communication with the resident advocates of alternate modes of transportation so that all needs are raised, and met wherever possible.
Mitch Novick, Group 5: I use my car once or twice a week. All other trips are on my bicycle or electric scooter. I have reduced my carbon footprint by using alternative transportation.
David Suarez, Group 5: Increase the number of safe and dedicated bicycle lanes
Joe Magazine, Group 6: In any organization, culture starts from the top down. Our city does a poor job at master planning and having high level, comprehensive plans and fit bottom up decisions into that plan. An increased focus on pedestrianization and bicycle safety must be a high level, comprehensive plan, and every development deal, infrastructure project, or urban planning decision make sure it is furthering and facilitating those goals.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: Prioritizing these modes of transportation can reduce traffic congestion, mitigate environmental impact, promote a healthier lifestyle, and enhance overall urban mobility. To prioritize them effectively, the city can allocate dedicated funding for infrastructure development, such as bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, and transit expansions. Additionally, promoting public awareness and education about the benefits of these modes of transportation can encourage their use.
Use the following space to share any additional thoughts or comments you have on the topic of bicycling, micromobility, or public transportation and Miami Beach.
Andres Asion, Group 4: No additional comments
Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, Group 4: No additional comments
Mitch Novick, Group 5: No additional comments
David Suarez, Group 5: I do not own a bicycle, however I use my scooter more than any other mode of transportation. I believe dedicated bicycle lanes are an important issue for our city’s future mobility issues. Bicycles, scooters, roller blades – the less cars on the road the better for our city.
Joe Magazine, Group 6: My daughter is six years old and I dreamed of raising her in a place where walkability and micromobility were prioritized. I live on west avenue, which should be one of the best ‘10-minute city’ areas of our city. Yet, the sidewalks are narrow, the street design promotes dangerous and erractic driving, and it is not a comfortable place to walk with a family carefree. Our goal in Miami Beach should be to have livable, walkable communities that help facilitate people getting out of their cars, reducing emissions which in turn reduces traffic for all of us. Because that is the city I want to see, I will be that champion on the commission.
Marcella Novela, Group 6: No additional comments