Steven Meiner, Mayor, City of Miami Beach

Invest: sat down with Steven Meiner, mayor of the city of Miami Beach, to discuss public safety achievements, infrastructure improvements, economic growth initiatives, and his expectations for Miami Beach’s economy in the near term. “The next few years will be incredibly exciting for Miami Beach because we have so many projects in the pipeline,” he said.

Reflecting on the past year, what have been the significant milestones and achievements for Miami Beach?

One of the most notable milestones has been our success in addressing the challenges that typically come with the spring break season in March. In the past, Miami Beach experienced significant issues, including overcrowding, stampedes, and even shootings, which were not only safety concerns but also a blemish on the city’s reputation. However, in my first year as mayor in 2024, things were vastly different. We had a safe, smooth season with no violence or overcrowding. Businesses like restaurants thrived without the chaos, and the international media didn’t have the negative headlines of prior years. For me, this was a major milestone — not only for the residents, who deserve to feel safe, but also for the business community, which has often been impacted by past incidents during spring break.

Another significant achievement is the influx of capital into the city. Just on Lincoln Road alone, we’ve seen over $100 million in investment, not just in purchasing properties but in actual development. New restaurants, nightclubs, and other establishments are being built and refurbished, with a clear commitment to enhancing Miami Beach’s appeal. I recently toured some of these spaces, and the transformations happening inside these buildings are remarkable. These investments are uplifting Lincoln Road, which is one of our main pedestrian malls, and similar developments are occurring across the city. Additionally, we’ve seen an increase in new residents moving here from places like New York, adding to the vibrancy and growth of Miami Beach. It’s truly an exciting time for our city.

What are your administration’s immediate priorities for Miami Beach, especially as you focus on the next two to three years?

I’m known as a “law and order” mayor, so public safety will always be a cornerstone of my administration. While Miami Beach is already considered a very safe city, my goal is to make it the safest city in the country. To achieve this, we’re working closely with our police department, and we’re taking a compassionate yet firm approach to homelessness. We want to provide help and resources to those in need while ensuring that public spaces remain safe and accessible for everyone. Encampments and sleeping in public areas simply won’t be tolerated.

Infrastructure is another top priority. Miami Beach has aging water and sewer systems, and many of these systems need of upgrades. We’re actively addressing this with resiliency projects designed to combat flooding, which is a critical issue for our city. Some of these projects had been stalled for years, but we’re now making significant progress.

Mobility is also a key focus. We’re working to establish a water taxi system that would connect different parts of Miami Beach and even link the city to Miami. This past year, we ran successful pilot programs during events like Art Basel, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. I envision a water taxi network that not only offers a practical solution for transportation but also provides a unique and enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike.

Finally, economic growth remains a priority. We’ve established new business improvement districts on 41st Street and Ocean Drive, and we’ve renewed our BID partnership with Lincoln Road. These public-private partnerships are crucial for fostering growth and maintaining Miami Beach’s status as a premier destination.

What industries or sectors are driving growth in Miami Beach, and where do you see the strongest opportunities for investment?

Tourism has always been the cornerstone of Miami Beach’s economy, and it continues to drive growth. However, we’re seeing exciting diversification, particularly in the tech sector. For example, we’ve been hosting major tech conferences, including the eMerge Americas Conference, which has been a recurring success. This year, we’re also hosting an Israeli tech conference that’s generating significant interest, and I expect there to be some overlap between the two events, which will further elevate Miami Beach as a tech hub.

In addition to conferences, we’re seeing tech companies looking for Class A office space here, which is fantastic for diversifying our economy. The timing is perfect as we have high-end office spaces coming online to meet this demand. It’s an exciting shift for Miami Beach, and we’re eager to support it.

What role do international connections and Miami’s proximity to Latin America play in the city’s business development strategy?

International connections, particularly with Latin America, play a significant role in Miami Beach’s growth. Our city has long been seen as a gateway between the United States and Latin America, and that position remains as strong as ever. Miami Beach is a natural fit for businesses and investors from Latin America, given our cultural ties, language connections, and the large and vibrant Hispanic community already here.

Interestingly, we’re also seeing interest from other regions, such as Israel. Companies that would have previously considered opening satellite offices in New York are now choosing South Florida, with Miami Beach being an increasingly attractive option. In many ways, our city sells itself. The level of outreach I receive from investors, trade organizations, and business groups looking to establish a presence here is a testament to our global appeal. We’re not only a gateway to Latin America but also a foothold for businesses looking to enter the U.S. market.

What are the primary challenges facing Miami Beach, and how is your office addressing them?

While Miami Beach is a safe and thriving city, there are always challenges to address. One ongoing issue is traffic. As an island city, we face unique challenges with mobility. Residents and visitors alike need to be able to move efficiently, whether they’re heading to work, picking up their kids from school, or enjoying our attractions.

To tackle this, we’ve implemented a real-time traffic management system in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). Our team actively monitors traffic cameras across the city to identify and respond to issues as they happen — whether it’s a double-parked delivery truck during rush hour or a construction delay. We’ve also hired and trained traffic specialists to help manage busy intersections and ensure smooth traffic flow.

Another challenge is the permitting process for businesses and residents. To address this, we’ve hired a new building director, engaged consultants to streamline the system, and established an advisory committee made up of professionals to guide improvements. This is a critical area for us because delays in permitting can hinder growth and investment.

Finally, affordable housing is a growing concern. Miami Beach is a highly desirable place to live, and demand for housing continues to rise. We’re addressing this through projects like the Collins Park workforce housing initiative, which aims to provide affordable housing for artists, first responders, and other essential workers. We’re also exploring additional opportunities and leveraging new state laws like the Live Local Act to incentivize workforce housing development. However, it’s a challenging issue, and we’re committed to finding innovative solutions.  

Looking ahead to the next two to three years, what are your expectations for Miami Beach’s local economy?

The next few years will be incredibly exciting for Miami Beach because we have so many projects in the pipeline. For example, the iconic Delano Hotel is undergoing renovations and will reopen soon, alongside other luxury hotels and high-end developments. These projects aren’t just about luxury; they bring world-class restaurants, nightlife, and unique experiences to our city.

On Lincoln Road alone, we’re seeing $100 million in investments. This includes renovations, new businesses, and revitalizations that will make the area even more dynamic. Additionally, we’re focusing on attracting long-term residents. While we already have a strong hotel industry, we’re steering development toward creating more permanent housing to address the demand for residential properties.

In terms of mobility, I envision a fully operational water taxi system that serves as both a practical and enjoyable way to navigate the city. It will connect Miami Beach’s neighborhoods while reducing road congestion, making it easier for residents and visitors to get around.

Ultimately, my vision is for Miami Beach to be a city that’s not only safe and clean but also resilient. We’re making significant strides in addressing flooding and improving infrastructure. Combined with our efforts to enhance arts, culture, and economic opportunities, I believe Miami Beach will continue to thrive as one of the world’s most desirable places to live, work, and visit.