Miami’s New Underline Park Carves a Leafy Pathway Through the Heart of the City
A barren space beneath Miami’s Metrorail tracks has been transformed into a lush landscape for relaxation and recreation.
A barren space beneath Miami’s Metrorail tracks has been transformed into a lush landscape for relaxation and recreation.
After years of anticipation and fundraising, the first phase of the Underline in Miami officially opens today. Dubbed Brickell Backyard, the $16.5-million, half-mile project is the first section in what will eventually be a 10-mile-long linear park with 120 acres of open space.
Located in one of the densest areas of Miami-Dade County, Brickell Backyard faced "complicated construction conditions," says Irene Hegedus, Underline project manager at the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works. In addition to accommodating all transit lines with traffic improvements, the seven-block section required the installation of electrical lines and soil remediation—two of the biggest cost contributors—as part of its transformation into a safe, open public space.
Robin Hill
The idea for the project stems from an unfortunate incident—in 2013, Meg Daly broke both of her elbows in a cycling accident. Unable to drive, she began taking the Metrorail to physical therapy and, while walking on a threadbare asphalt path beneath the tracks to the train, wondered if the underutilized space could be transformed into a park for the community.
Inspired by the success of the High Line in New York City, Daly left her job as the owner of a marketing agency to launch The Friends of the Underline, a nonprofit that advocates for the project and has secured over $120 million of funding for construction.
The Underline will include over 30 redesigned crosswalks, separated bike and pedestrian facilities, lighting, and enhanced wayfinding.
Robin Hill
Dedicated off-road pathways for cyclists and pedestrians encourage alternative modes of transportation.
Robin Hill
See the full story on Dwell.com: Miami’s New Underline Park Carves a Leafy Pathway Through the Heart of the City
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