Miami's $109 Million Underline Project: The New "Central Park" of Miami

The Underline: Miami's $109 Million Linear Park Transforming the City

Miami is witnessing the birth of what many are calling its own version of New York's High Line, but with an ambitious scope that could redefine urban living in South Florida. The Underline, a $109 million investment, is rapidly transforming the spaces beneath Miami's Metrorail into a 10-mile linear park that promises to revolutionize how residents experience the city.

Current Progress and Future Vision

The Underline has already come to life in Brickell, with development actively progressing between the Dadeland and Vizcaya areas. What started as an urban renewal project is now approaching the final stages of its initial phase, with the section from Brickell to Dadeland nearing completion.

But the vision extends far beyond these initial 10 miles. Miami-Dade County has plans to expand The Underline along the entire US-1 corridor, stretching from Dadeland Station all the way to Florida City. This expansion will complement the soon-to-open rapid bus transit system, creating an unprecedented urban green corridor throughout Miami's most populated areas.

More Than Just a Trail

While many might think of The Underline as simply a place for biking or running, the project offers a much more comprehensive vision for urban living. Standing at the Underline Plaza near Douglas Road and Merrick Park, you can already see the blueprint for what's to come.

The plaza will soon feature retail shops offering drinks and light bites where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments in a beautiful outdoor setting. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the planned pickleball courts, while nature lovers can look forward to a butterfly garden. For water recreation, there will even be an area to launch kayaks.

These diverse amenities transform The Underline from a mere transportation corridor into a true community destination – a place to stroll, play, dine, and connect with both nature and neighbors. In essence, The Underline is becoming Miami's version of Central Park, but with a linear design that makes it accessible to many more neighborhoods.

Transit-Oriented Communities

One of the most exciting developments surrounding The Underline is the growth of transit-oriented communities around every Metro station along its path. These new developments recognize the value of this urban amenity, creating neighborhoods where residents can enjoy both the park below and the transit options above.

In the coming years, expect to see real estate listings prominently featuring "walking distance to The Underline" as a major selling point. This amenity, which has been years in the making, is transforming into a lifestyle enhancement that will significantly impact property values and neighborhood desirability.

## Improved Transit Integration

The Underline doesn't exist in isolation – it's part of a larger transportation revolution in Miami. The project encourages greater use of the Metrorail system above, which connects cities throughout Miami-Dade County. Residents can travel from Dadeland to downtown Miami in just 20 minutes, regardless of rush hour traffic, creating a truly alternative transportation option.

Supporting this integration, Miami-Dade is investing heavily in station improvements. Douglas Station alone is receiving a $17 million renovation, while Coconut Grove's station is currently closed for its own facelift. These investments signal a commitment to creating a comprehensive transportation and recreation system that works in tandem.

The Future Value Proposition

As The Underline continues to develop, it represents more than just a park or transit corridor – it's becoming a defining feature of Miami's urban landscape. The project demonstrates how thoughtful urban planning can transform underutilized spaces into vibrant community assets that enhance quality of life while increasing property values.

For real estate investors, homebuyers, and current residents, The Underline represents an opportunity to be part of Miami's evolving urban experience. As the project continues to expand and communities continue to develop around it, those with proximity to this amenity will enjoy both lifestyle benefits and potential property appreciation.

Joanna Jimenez is a Miami real estate expert with The Opes Group at Compass, specializing in helping buyers, sellers, investors, and those relocating to Miami. Contact The Opes Group for assistance with your real estate needs in areas near The Underline and throughout Miami-Dade County.*