FYI Miami: May 1, 2014

BRING THEM HERE: Miami-Dade Commission Chairwoman Rebeca Sosa has asked the mayor’s office to inform commissioners about travel expenses by all departments, including details about who has traveled how many times and for what reason. She questioned an increase in travel requested in the preliminary 2014-15 budget for the Department of Cultural Affairs. Director Michael Spring said staff travels for “professional development” and to preview performing-arts activities the department might want to book at one of its facilities. Added Chairwoman Sosa: “We need them [staff] to get the best education… but maybe we can bring the teacher here to provide the conferences to decrease the costs.” She requested the information during an April 23 Finance Committee meeting when several departments presented preliminary budgets.

RANSOM REDO: A major rebuilding at the Upper School of Ransom Everglades School, 3575 Main Highway in Coconut Grove, won support of Miami commissioners, who last week OK’d the first reading of a special area plan and development agreement for the historic prep school. The master plan includes demolition of campus buildings, the addition of three including a state-of-the-art STEM building for the study of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, added green open space and preservation of tree canopies and historic buildings. Founded in 1903, Ransom Everglades is a coeducational, college preparatory school for grades 6-12. The Middle School at 2045 S Bayshore Drive has 456 students. The Upper School has 608. School representatives said they’re working with police and a neighboring school to improve traffic flow. The new campus layout is expected to increase internal circulation up to 60%, the commission was told.

DESIGN A PARK: Metro 1 has partnered with DawnTown Miami to present the Wynwood Gateway Park Competition to design and build an urban park in the heart of the Wynwood Arts District. The winning team will have its idea built and get $10,000 cash. Metro 1 has developed an intersection leading into the heart of the district, known as the Wynwood Gateway Complex. Within this complex two 70- by 100-foot lots totaling 14,000 square feet have been dedicated to public green space. Ideally, the space could incorporate elements of urban farming, art, sculpture, lighting, landscaping and music. Deadline for plans is June 3; finalists are to be named June 15. Details: www.dawntown.org/wynwood.