The Miami Marine Stadium, a landmark of midcentury Brutalist architecture, stands out with its massive cantilevered roof and a breathtaking city view. Opened in 1963, it became the nation’s exclusive powerboat race venue, symbolizing South Florida. Designed by Cuban refugee Hilario Candela, it hosted notable events such as Elvis Presley’s 1967 film “Clambake” and performances by Gloria Estefan and Jimmy Buffett on a floating stage. However, after enduring severe damage during Hurricane Andrew in 1992, the 6,500-seat venue closed and has since deteriorated, covered in graffiti, despite its national historic significance.
On Tuesday, voters will decide on a proposal allowing the city to collaborate with a private company to restore the stadium on Virginia Key. This stadium, facing Biscayne Bay with a skyline backdrop, is cherished in Miami’s cultural history. President Richard Nixon and Sammy Davis Jr. participated in a 1972 campaign rally there, and residents gathered for various community events, including Easter sunrise services and celebrations honoring Our Lady of Charity.
“It encapsulated a time period in Miami that’s incredibly unique with an incredible story that touches all Miamians,”said Miami Commissioner Damian Pardo.“So this is really a place that connects with Miami at a very deep and personal level.”
Hilario Candela, who passed away in 2022, designed this structure in his late 20s. He devoted decades to the architectural landscape of Miami and was a significant proponent of the restoration efforts for the marine stadium. In 2018, the stadium was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Ken Detzner, then Secretary of State, recognized the stadium as a unique architectural and historic resource, highlighting its representation of Miami’s cultural evolution in the 1960s.
The late Jimmy Buffett, before his 2023 passing, urged Miami officials to save this venue. He fondly recalled a memorable 1985 concert, emphasizing the stadium’s cultural significance. Savannah Buffett continues advocating for the stadium through Restore Miami Marine Stadium. Co-founder Donald Worth began this mission in 2008, opposing the city’s plans to demolish it, highlighting the stadium’s architectural charm and historical essence.
The architecture gives it the wow, the history gives it its soul,”Worth said.“It’s just a special, magical place, and so many people in Miami have had such memorable experiences there.”
The stadium’s future depends on voter decisions. Breakwater Hospitality Group’s co-founder, Emi Guerra, involved in the project, highlighted the stadium’s exceptional view and prime location off Biscayne Bay as key attractions for potential revitalization. Guerra argued that this is not a commercial endeavor but an effort to preserve Miami’s history, explaining that the city would retain ownership, with the management company serving the city’s vision.
When it’s something that’s historic, you have two options: restore it or let it rot,”Guerra stated.
Concerns about potential noise and traffic have been voiced by Ernesto Cuesta, head of the Brickell Homeowners Association. While supportive of preserving the landmark, he prefers a more park-oriented usage, emphasizing green spaces.
The restoration aims to respect the stadium’s historical roots. Despite being unused for over 30 years, studies affirm its structural soundness. Project architect Richard Heisenbottle, experienced in restoring Miami landmarks, plans renovations incorporating modern amenities and accessibility, leveraging the original durable construction. The city has already approved restoration plans.
Commissioner Pardo noted that previously, government constraints hindered the stadium’s operation as a major event space. The upcoming referendum could allow a management agreement facilitating this renewal. The plan proposes converting the parking area into a public flex park, generating event revenue for stadium repairs, without taxpayer burden. Commissioner Pardo stressed the timely opportunity for this restoration.
It’s the right time to finally do this,Pardo said.
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