Push on to make Washington Avenue and Lincoln Road more residential

Miami Beach's City Commission is taking steps to transform Washington Avenue and Lincoln Road into more residential areas, aiming to reduce their tourist-centric nature. Commissioner David Suarez emphasized the need for rezoning mixed-use areas to accommodate both businesses and residents, which could help revitalize abandoned buildings. This initiative reflects a desire to change the neighborhood's atmosphere and make it more livable for locals. Micah, a former resident of Washington Avenue, shared his experience of the noise from nearby clubs, which made living there challenging. He believes that increasing the residential population could positively influence the neighborhood's vibe, suggesting that a larger community presence could lead to improvements. Local resident Jill Walls, part of the volunteer group SOBE Safe, highlighted safety concerns in certain areas, particularly at night. She expressed hope that more residents would enhance safety and overall quality of life in the community, addressing the darker and less secure streets. The process for rezoning will involve public input, requiring participation in two planning board meetings and two city commission meetings. A workshop is scheduled for Tuesday to gather community feedback, indicating that the city is committed to involving residents in the decision-making process for these changes.