What’s the future of the Rickenbacker Causeway? Here are 5 takeaways

A plan to transform the Rickenbacker Causeway in Miami addresses traffic, safety and recreation. The proposal, backed by Miami-Dade County Commissioner Raquel Regalado, includes a viaduct for vehicles and expanded park areas.

FULL STORY: Will radical remake of the Rickenbacker fly? Road above, waterfront park below

Here are the highlights:

▪ Viaduct: The plan suggests elevating most vehicle traffic on a viaduct, allowing uninterrupted travel across Virginia Key to Key Biscayne. That would separate fast-moving cars from pedestrians and cyclists below.

▪ Recreation: Ground-level changes include wider beaches, park spaces and dedicated paths for pedestrians and cyclists. The design aims to create a more accessible and enjoyable waterfront area.

▪ Community: The proposal has gained backing from Key Biscayne residents and officials, contrasting with previous county plans.

▪ Cost: Estimated at $475 million, the plan requires collaboration among local, county and state entities. The viaduct and new Bear Cut bridge would be built to withstand hurricanes and rising sea levels.

▪ Next steps: While the long-term plan is developed, short-term measures are being considered to alleviate traffic issues. These include better event planning and improvements to intersections.

The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in the Miami Herald newsroom. The full story in the link at top was reported, written and edited entirely by Miami Herald journalists.