Just offshore of downtown Miami lies Brickell Key, an island that is home to 11 condominium buildings and the Mandarin Oriental, a world-renowned 5-star hotel.
Nestled amid the concrete towers is the island’s emerald green gem, Brickell Key Park, 2.4 acres of trees, grass, and winding paths with breathtaking bay views and tropical breezes.
One of downtown Miami’s biggest developers plans to develop the property– eliminating the last major green space on the island.
Swire Properties was established in Hong Kong in 1972 and currently has investments across Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland, Singapore, and the United States. In Miami, Swire develops and manages commercial, retail, hotel, and residential properties, such as Brickell City Center.
Swire is the master developer of Brickell Key. The first condominium building, Brickell Key One, was built in 1982. Since then, there have been many new additions to the island.
In November 2000, the Mandarin Oriental opened for business, one of the first in an array of luxury hotels within the area. Swire Properties has held a 75 percent stake in the 120,233 sq. ft property. Development plans have been in the works for years. However, a newer project proposal seems to finally be in motion.
In December 2022, Swire made proposals to the Federal Aviation Administration regarding building height and to the city of Miami for tree removal permits.
Rumors regarding Swire’s plans have been circulating among Brickell Key residents. Residents believe they’re planning to demolish the current property and build two skyscrapers. However, Swire’s plans are still unclear and they have declined to offer further details:
“Swire Properties Inc. continues to be an active developer and explores potential new opportunities regularly. At this time, we have no further information to share.”
Since opening Brickell Key Park in the early 2000s, Swire placed a sign that states that the land is a “future development site…These facilities are provided as a courtesy and convenience by Swire. They are temporary.”
While residents have been aware of Swire’s ownership of Brickell Key Park for years, many are still upset to see the beautiful property go. They continue to voice their frustrations in a Facebook group titled ‘Brickell Living.’
“Miami doesn’t give af about quality/balance of life in a “city,” it’s ridiculous,” Jasmyn Nguyen comments. “This is the only good park in Brickell.”
But some residents say they have been expecting this for years: “It was always planned to be built on unfortunately,” Jon Jay comments.
