DAMAC International, the real estate company behind the 8777 Collins Avenue project in Surfside, has issued a response to the concerns raised by Surfside Commissioner Marianne Meischeid in a recent op-ed. The company emphasizes its commitment to adding value to the community while respecting the memory of the tragic Champlain Towers South collapse.

DAMAC highlights its collaboration with the town to design a loading and sanitation plan that complies with codes and minimizes its impact. With only 52 units, the development’s demands will be minimal. The loading area has been strategically located to accommodate city sanitation trucks while being discreetly shielded from public view. All trash receptacles will be stored in an enclosed, air-conditioned room until removal.

The company also clarifies that their proposed design, reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Board, was based on town policies at the time. The plan incorporated the town’s requirements for the sanitation trucks to enter the site, park in a loading space, and pick up trash from that location.

Addressing concerns about traffic and safety, DAMAC reveals that they had a pre-application meeting with representatives of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The FDOT acknowledged DAMAC’s plan for the loading dock on 88th Street, given that it lacked jurisdiction over that road. They also discussed the sight triangle issue caused by the angle of Collins Avenue, with FDOT stating that no obstructions taller than 3.5 feet would be allowed.

DAMAC acknowledges that their comments during the Planning and Zoning meeting on August 31 may have been misconstrued. They claim that the statement that the “FDOT doesn’t care” was taken out of context and instead referred to regulatory issues. They express disappointment in the misinterpretation, attributing it to the raw emotions surrounding the tragedy and the upcoming elections.

To address concerns raised by the Champlain Towers South families, DAMAC held a meeting with Surfside officials to find an alternative sanitation-collection strategy that would not interfere with the proposed memorial. The company emphasizes that it had no involvement in the building’s collapse and points to the court’s direction to sell the property without any conditions for a memorial.

In conclusion, DAMAC International asserts its dedication to Miami’s future and the Surfside community. They want to avoid being scapegoated for the tragedy and emphasize their commitment to adding value to the area in a respectful manner.

Sources:
– Surfside Commissioner Marianne Meischeid’s op-ed
– Town of Surfside Resolution No. 2022-2853
– Statement from Niall McLoughlin, Senior Vice President of Communications for DAMAC International