Developer Moves Forward with Plans for 7,500-Unit Mixed-Use Development and New Tri-Rail Station in Miami’s Little River District

Swerdlow Group, led by veteran developer Michael Swerdlow, is moving forward with plans to transform the Little River District in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood. The proposed development, spanning approximately 63 acres, will include 7,500 residential units, combining affordable, workforce, and market-rate housing. Swerdlow’s vision for the area builds on his experience in creating higher-end affordable housing, similar to his recently completed Sawyer’s Walk project in Overtown.

The Little River District is designed to provide housing for a broad range of residents, addressing Miami-Dade County’s growing demand for affordable housing. According to a report by Miami Homes for All, over 90,000 units are needed for renters earning below 80% of the area median income. Swerdlow’s project aims to contribute significantly to this deficit, with a focus on quality housing that doesn’t sacrifice amenities. The affordable units in the Little River project will include features such as floor-to-ceiling windows and in-unit washer and dryer systems—elements typically found in market-rate apartments.

Credit: Arquitectonica.

The mixed-use development will also feature over 600,000 square feet of retail space and more than 200,000 square feet of publicly accessible green space, which will include parks and recreational areas. These spaces are intended to serve both residents and the surrounding community, enhancing the neighborhood’s appeal.

Transportation is a key element of the project, with plans for a Tri-Rail station to be built on-site. This addition is expected to reduce the need for parking spaces and alleviate traffic congestion in the area. “The project is big enough that the saving in parking spaces warrants the construction of a train station,” Swerdlow said in a recent interview. He also emphasized the importance of providing better connectivity within Miami’s urban core.

Credit: Arquitectonica.

The design of the Little River District is being led by architecture firms Arquitectonica and PlusUrbia, both known for their innovative approaches to urban development. Swerdlow’s aim is to create a vibrant, community-focused environment that reflects the area’s cultural and historical significance while addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in South Florida.

This ambitious $3 billion project is still awaiting final approval from Miami-Dade County, and once green-lit, is expected to take around seven to eight years to complete. The development represents a significant investment in Miami’s future, bringing together high-quality housing, retail, and public amenities to a rapidly evolving neighborhood. As with Swerdlow’s previous developments, the Little River District is poised to be a game-changer in Miami’s housing landscape.

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