Project Overview

The City of Miami Beach is replacing and expanding the Marine Patrol Facility adjacent to Maurice Gibb Memorial Park to unify police and fire marine operations in one modern, strategically located center. This consolidation will strengthen coordination and improve emergency response across the city’s busy waterfront.

The new facility is designed to achieve LEED Gold certification, reflecting a commitment to sustainability, resilience and long‑term environmental stewardship. It will support essential public safety functions while enhancing visitor amenities and upgrading critical waterfront infrastructure. This project is partially funded with General Obligation bonds, as approved by the 2018 G.O. Bond vote.

Its design brings together essential public safety needs, visitor amenities and resilient infrastructure upgrades — providing benefits for everyone, from park visitors to first responders and people who may be on a vessel in area waters.

What’s Happening

The demolition of the existing two-story, 2,500 square foot building at 1790 Purdy Avenue is scheduled to start in July 2026. Subsequently, the city will begin construction of a new three-story, 10,924 square-foot facility designed to improve marine safety operations and enhance overall services for park visitors and those on the water.

The ground level of the new building will feature a welcoming lobby for visitors, upgraded public restrooms, and a Parks Department office to support daily park operations at Maurice Gibb Memorial Park. This level will also include covered boat storage and secure storage areas for both Police and Fire marine equipment. The second level will serve as the new headquarters for the Police Department's Marine Patrol Unit. It will include offices, workspaces, and support areas. The third level will become the dedicated home of the Fire Department's Marine Patrol Unit.

Timeline

Construction begins in July 2026 and is expected to last approximately 13 months. Work hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Extended time is subject to city approval and community notification. Please note, schedules may change due to inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances.

Project Budget $13 million

What to Expect

• A construction fence with wind screen will be in place around the facility and work zone for everyone's safety. 
• Moderate levels of construction noise is expected during the day.
• Construction materials, machinery, vehicles, and personnel will be on site. 
• Some temporary, intermittent lane closures may be required in the vicinity during construction for deliveries of materials. Please pay attention to detour signage and flagmen on site for instructions.
• Part of the Maurice Gibb Memorial Park boat ramp parking area will be temporarily inaccessible during construction. The construction zone for the new Marine Patrol Facility should not impact the parking lot adjacent to the playground and park.

Need More Info?

Contact Lauren Firtel, South Beach Neighborhood Affairs Manager via email at laurenfirtel@miamibeachfl.gov or call / text 305.986.6403.