Ocean Drive will remain fully closed to cars for the next two years under a plan being recommended by city administrators.
The street was closed to cars in May 2020, as a way to help restaurants recover from the pandemic by adding seating.
Since that time, the street has remained fully pedestrianized.
Now, a county approval for the street closure is set to expire, and commissioners must decide on the next steps for the street.
The city administration is recommending commissioners approve Option 3a, which includes adding 600 planters and adding automatic arm gates to allow for emergency vehicles only, while keeping the street open only to pedestrians, bikes, and restaurant seating.
To address complaints from hotel guests over long walking distances with luggage, freebee shuttles would be permitted.
A permanent solution would then be constructed beginning in 2023, after plans are finalized by the end of this year.
However, architect Bernard Zyscovich, who is preparing the long-term plan, is recommending that cars should be permitted to resume driving on the street as part of the permanent solution, according to Miami New Times.
Commissioners are scheduled to decide on an interim solution at a meeting on June 23.
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