Back in May of 2020, Ocean Drive was one of the highly trafficked first streets to close to cars in an effort to help restaurants reopen safely. The extra space allowed operators to take over sidewalks and adjacent parking spots for outside seating without the need for a special permit. It was a popular proposition that grew the spate of outdoor restaurants in Miami and gave locals and tourists a new place to wander. Since then, there hasn’t been a sunny day that Ocean Drive wasn’t swarming with people on foot, on skates or on their bikes, making the most of the weather and bonus beachfront area.
That’s all over starting today. As of January 24, Ocean Drive is reopening to drivers with one southbound lane from Fifth to 13th Streets. There’ll be a two-way bike lane to replace on-street parking on the east side of the street (closes to the sand) while valet will continue directly adjacent to the restaurants and businesses. A new pedestrian plaza is set to go up between 13th and 14th Streets, reports the Miami Herald.
Day 1 of cars returning to Ocean Drive and we’ve seen a few confused drivers want to go the wrong way on the single southbound lane. And at least one Lamborghini driver tease a burn out for onlookers. pic.twitter.com/SDYbPp9HYZ
— Martin Vassolo (@martindvassolo) January 24, 2022
Plenty of locals aren’t too thrilled about the change, some lament the loss of yet another pedestrian area while others dread the return to chaos on Ocean Drive. According to the Miami Herald, the reconfiguration will be temporary as the City of Miami Beach is set to vote on a larger plan in the coming months, which should make Ocean Drive car-free for good.
Today was the “Last day-of beautiful pedestrian #oceandrive. Where restaurants could’ve had more outdoor space. Families with kids+pets room to enjoy + exercise in the street peacefully. I’m grateful while it lasted. Now back to cars +noise+wild behaviors.@BikeWalkMB @OASMiami RT pic.twitter.com/XNHsMx2xJN
— 305MiamiRealEstate (@305MiamiRealEst) January 23, 2022