Miami Oks Residential Project For East Little Havana

By Deserae del Campo
Intown Village, a $171 million residential project in East Little Havana, was unanimously granted a major use special permit last week by the Miami City Commission.

Intown Village is to be a two-tower, 202-foot, 19-story development with 395 condos, 33,000 square feet of retail and 34,000 square feet of additional commercial space.

It’s to rise at 45 SW Eighth Ave., 715, 717, 727 and 735 SW First St. and 702 and 720 W. Flagler St.

Condos are to range from $200,000 to $400,000.

Before commissioners voted, some voiced dissatisfaction over Intown Village and its location.

No public postings around the parcels where the project is proposed informed the neighborhood about it, said Steve Haag, a Miami resident. "This project will change the complexion of the neighborhood completely," he said.

"This project will bring substantial improvement to the site," said Simon Ferro, attorney representing developers. "This project is very important in revitalizing this area, and we ask the city commission for your approval."

The developers are Miami-based mFm Construction, Little Havana Associates LLC and equity partner the Canyon-Johnson Urban Fund.

The urban fund was created in 2001 by former professional basketball player Earvin "Magic" Johnson and Canyon Capital Reality Advisors.

The architect for Intown Village is Behar Font & Associates. Principals of mFm Construction are Mauricio Martinez and Jose Malabet. Advertisement