Ocean Drive Reopens to Two-Way Traffic after Lawsuit
Background
The iconic South Beach hotel, the Clevelander, has sued the city of Miami Beach, alleging that the road is closed illegally, which harms its business. The Clevelander is requesting that the court enter a temporary and permanent injunction to restore Ocean Drive to its pre-COVID-19 condition.
Court Ruling
A judge has ordered Ocean Drive to re-open to two-way traffic once again. The judge, Beatrice Butchko Sanchez, orally agreed to the Clevelander’s request and stated that the city would need to reopen the road to northbound traffic between 5th Street and 14th Place no later than 5 p.m. on January 15.
Consequences
The injunction may also force the city to remove bike lanes on that stretch of Ocean Drive. In a letter to Mayor Steven Meiner and the City Commission, City Attorney Ricardo J. Dopico and City Manager Eric T. Carpenter expressed the city’s "strenuous objection" to the judge’s ruling.
City’s Concerns
The city is concerned that any changes made must be consistent with safety standards and codes, as specified by the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW). They are also awaiting a written order from the judge confirming the oral ruling in the next few days.
Background on Ocean Drive Closure
Ocean Drive was shut down to cars in May 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The southbound lane reopened to traffic in January 2022, and a pedestrian plaza was opened between 13th Street and 14th Place.
Conclusion
The future of Ocean Drive is once again uncertain as the city of Miami Beach faces a new challenge. The Clevelander’s lawsuit has forced the city to re-evaluate its plans for the popular street. The outcome of this case will have a significant impact on the city’s transportation infrastructure and the businesses that rely on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Clevelander’s lawsuit about?
A: The Clevelander is suing the city of Miami Beach, alleging that the road is closed illegally, which harms its business.
Q: What is the court’s ruling?
A: The court has ordered Ocean Drive to re-open to two-way traffic once again.
Q: What are the consequences of the injunction?
A: The injunction may force the city to remove bike lanes on that stretch of Ocean Drive.
Q: What are the city’s concerns?
A: The city is concerned that any changes made must be consistent with safety standards and codes, as specified by the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW).
