Will the famous building ever reopen?

Just south of downtown Miami, on the edge of Virginia Key, lies the iconic Miami Marine Stadium. In its heyday, the unique floating stage was filled with musical performances by Queen and Ray Charlesas well as Boat races, boxing matches and other events.

Sitting on land, but also hanging over the waterthe impressive venue still stands today but remains unused, having been closed to the public following Hurricane Andrew in 2012. 1992when the city administration declared the building unsafe. And after more than three decades of neglect and Graffiti art on every cornerSupport for the restoration and revitalization of this historic landmark continues to grow.

What is Miami Marine Stadium?

Year of construction 1963 and designed by the Cuban-born architect Hilario CandelaMiami Marine Stadium would be home to a variety of events and public gatherings. Many local residents will remember Jimmy Buffett’s legendary performance in 1985 or the times he jumped from the stage into the water.

Most people may have even discovered the stadium during a racing scene in the 1967 film “Clambake.” with Elvis Presley.

The venue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Seating 6,500 and overlooks Biscayne Bay and the skyline of downtown MiamiWhen the stadium was closed in 1992 and left to decay, many graffiti artists began to leave their colorful designs. Since then it has stood empty, but the Events are regularly held on the grounds around the stadiumthe most recent of these being this year’s pickleball-fueled Pickle Games and the returning Country Bay Music Festival.

But could anything change for this waterfront landmark?

Could Miami Marine Stadium be revived?

Everyone loves a good comeback and it is has been a long time coming when it comes to the renovation of the stadium. Friends of Miami Marine Stadiuman advocacy group, has played a major role in raising awareness and Gloria and Emilio Estefanwho have performed on this stage.

The Miami City Commission approved a comprehensive redevelopment plan more than three years ago that included: Repairs to seats, roof and infrastructure and an authorized $45 million in bonds.

As the Miami Herald reported this year, Commissioner Damian Pardo, whose district includes Virginia Key, would work to get the city on track with the restoration project, for example by Hiring an operator, re-approval of the expired security deposit authorization And Preparing a referendum in 2025 to win voter approval. This would be supported by Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, who has long supported the restoration and said he would make it a priority before his term ends in 2025.

Hopes are high for the Return to empty stages for concerts and sporting eventsthat could rival the Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado. Fortunately, according to the Miami Herald, some repairs were recently completed: a $3 million project to Repair of corroded grandstand posts in the water, largely funded by the Florida Inland Navigation District.