Coral Gables Mobility Hub bill rises with demolition

Coral Gables Mobility Hub’s construction firm, The Weitz Company, got the go-ahead to demolish a parking garage where the hub will rise – costing the city an additional $1.5 million.

During Tuesday’s city commission meeting, city officials approved future bond funds to be allocated for unforeseeable costs for services that were not included in the management agreement.

Since Weitz is engaged to perform as the construction manager at risk for the project, city staff recommended the firm is the best suited to perform the required demolition.

“They’re completely ready, so what we’d like to do is proceed with, not only having the motion, but actually also awarding the funds for their contract,” said City Manager Peter J. Iglesias. “We would like to proceed with demo in certain areas.”

The change order is allowing for the project to continue as scheduled and prevent any delays in the construction schedule, the city manager said.

The estimated $42 million Coral Gables Mobility Hub at 245 Andalusia Ave. is projected to be completed by the first quarter of 2024. The hub is to have an internal drive-thru lane for ridesharing services, retail and bicycle storage. It will also offer dockless vehicle parking, bike share docking stations, a wi-fi lounge, e-commerce logistics for drone package deliveries and pop-up coffee shops.

The first level is reserved for electric vehicles, with charging stations in all spaces. Intermediate levels will be self-parking that can accommodate self-driving vehicles in the future. The open-air rooftop is to feature landscaped areas, venue space, café restaurant, lounging areas and areas to practice sports.

“Construction right now is in flux and we’re working with a very difficult market right now,” Mr. Iglesias said. “But demolition will initiate the project.”