Plans have been announced for Carnegie Mellon University Miami, a 35-acre campus in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood supported by a $2 billion commitment from Citadel founder and CEO Ken Griffin. The funding is part of Griffin’s $3 billion pledge to Carnegie Mellon University, with the remaining $1 billion allocated to its Pittsburgh campus. Once complete, the Miami campus is expected to support more than 3,500 undergraduate and graduate students, nearly 300 faculty members, and over 600 staff members.
The Wynwood Business Improvement District (BID) welcomed the announcement on September 30. Plans for the campus include space for industry research laboratories and venture studios, providing opportunities for students and faculty to work with companies and community partners.
Credit: Carnegie Mellon University
“This is a defining moment for Wynwood, and it didn’t happen by accident,” said David Lombardi, Chairman of the Wynwood BID. “The vision has always been to build a lasting neighborhood where creativity and entrepreneurship can thrive. We see Carnegie Mellon’s choice of Wynwood as a vote of confidence in that work and in the community that made it possible. CMU’s presence can accelerate the progress already underway here.”
The announcement follows more than two decades of investment in Wynwood’s galleries, studios, cultural institutions, and residential and commercial development. The neighborhood developed from an industrial warehouse district into an arts destination, with private development adding housing and workplaces. The BID cited Wynwood’s proximity to Downtown Miami, appeal to young people, and creative identity in its statement welcoming the university.
Credit: Carnegie Mellon University
Established in 2013, the Wynwood BID is a property-owner-funded special assessment district serving the Wynwood Arts District. The organization commissioned the NRD-1 neighborhood revitalization district plan, adopted in 2015, which established a framework for housing, businesses, and public spaces with provisions intended to preserve the neighborhood’s artistic character.
According to the BID, thousands of new homes have brought additional year-round residents to Wynwood, while employers including Amazon, Sony Music, PwC, and MIAX have established offices in the neighborhood. The organization also funds cleaning and public safety programs. Planned improvements include new parks, safer pedestrian connections, and tree planting to provide additional shade for the existing community and future students, faculty, and researchers.
“We’re excited to welcome Carnegie Mellon to Wynwood and look forward to working with the university as its plans take shape,” said William Kelley, Executive Director of the Wynwood BID. “The BID will bring the neighborhood’s priorities into those conversations while continuing our work on public spaces that serve people every day. We’re especially hopeful that CMU’s presence creates new opportunities for the artists and creative professionals who have shaped Wynwood. We want that community to continue to flourish as the neighborhood grows.”
“It is an honor to welcome CMU, a leading academic institution that will add another layer to Wynwood’s own blend of creativity and technology,” said Daniel Whyte, Vice Chairman of the Wynwood BID. “This commitment expands the hallmark of our great neighborhood to include premier learning, research, and collaboration. It will bring new companies where students can build their careers and make impacts that will grow for generations. We are thankful to Mr. Griffin and CMU for choosing Wynwood and continuing its legacy as one of the world’s most distinctive neighborhoods.”
Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the first graduate students enrolling in 2028 under the university’s current plan, pending the necessary regulatory approvals.
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Wow… Griffin going big in Miami. I’ve been to the Pittsburgh campus many times and would love to see a modern day, Cathedral of Learning, included in this new campus. Maybe Griffin could place a call to his friends at RAMSA?
Wow! What an investment in Wynwood and Miami! Where will this be located in Wynwood? There is tons of open space. The neighborhood sure could use pedestrian upgrades like trees and sidewalks, etc. It’s a very rundown area. Will be totally different in 10 years….