Miami Gardens deals for logistics complex

As part of sale plans for 13 City of Miami Gardens-owned properties, city staff is seeking a sale-leaseback agreement with Ambrose Property Group to construct the Miami Gardens Logistics Complex.

Following a request for proposals, a project would be developed at 1020 NW 163rd Drive and 1050 NW 163rd Drive, along with a parking lot separating the two properties. City Manager Cameron Benson was to present the proposal Wednesday to the city council for approval to proceed with negotiations and bring in a final sale purchase leaseback agreement.

The complex would be a state-of-the-art, class-A flex industrial building, according to an agenda cover memo sponsored by Mr. Benson. The 4.54-acre site would also offer 30,754 square feet of green and open space, including 113 standard parking spaces and six ADA-accessible parking spaces.

The project is expected to create at least 99 jobs during construction and potentially more permanent jobs as the city expands, the memo said. The property would also become a taxable asset for Miami Gardens while it is expected to enhance the aesthetics of the Sunshine Industrial Park. The construction aspects would include maximum sustainability efforts and would meet LEED certification.

Recommended by an appointed evaluation committee, city staff plans to negotiate a purchase price for the properties at an estimated $5.54 million, along with a tenant improvement allowance of about $612,000.

In August 2020, Miami Gardens partnered with CBRE Inc. and requested proposals for building on 13 city-owned commercial and residential properties throughout the city.

The city allowed developers to be creative in submissions to complement its vision to enhance the “quality of life, foster civic pride and provide responsible development for the community,” Craig Clay, Miami Gardens’ deputy city manager, told Miami Today at the time.

Redevelopment goals for the residential properties were to make homeownership a reality, increase property values and revitalize neighborhoods. For the commercial parcels, selected developers were to demonstrate creative opportunities for economic development and make oral presentations to the city council and real estate advisors. Under consideration were venues for world-class sports, entertainment, restaurants, or the arts and culture, according to city officials.

“Timeframes will vary based on the experience of the development team, permitting requirements, the complexity of the project and other factors,” Mr. Clay said.