Miami voters will soon determine the future of the historic Miami Marine Stadium, a waterfront venue long celebrated for its boat races, concerts and community events.
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The stadium, closed since Hurricane Andrew in 1992, has remained a symbol of Miami’s cultural past.
The late musician Jimmy Buffett helped cement the stadium’s reputation as a one‑of‑a‑kind performance space.
Buffett’s daughter, Savannah Buffett, said her father believed deeply in restoring the venue.
“My dad, when he played here, it was not a family‑friendly environment… it was not a show for kids,” she said.
She added that preservationists have been essential to keeping the stadium’s legacy alive.
“They are the real heroes here…as a music lover, absolutely I would love to sit in these seats and finally see some live music again,” she said.
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Two‑Phase Redevelopment Plan
The proposal before voters outlines a two‑phase redevelopment strategy. In the first phase, an event company would build a “flex park” in the stadium’s parking area, installing large tents and temporary structures to host gatherings and generate revenue.
Those revenues would help the city secure a bond to fund the second phase: a full renovation of the stadium itself.
Supporters say the plan offers a financially viable path to restoring the venue without placing the burden solely on taxpayers.
Don Worth, co‑founder of Restore Miami Marine Stadium, said the site evokes a unique emotional response.
“When you speak to people about the stadium, their eyes light up… the words that are always used are ‘magical.’ And how many magical places do you really know?” Worth said.
Financial Terms
According to city documents:
- The City of Miami would receive 93% of gross sales from all events.
- The city would receive 85% of sponsorship revenue.
- The city would pay a $33,333 monthly management fee to the event operator.
What the Vote Means
A yes vote in the August referendum would allow the project to move forward.
A no vote would force the city to restart negotiations and search for a new corporate partner.
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The measure requires a majority – 50 percent plus one voter – approval to pass.