Florida Construction News staff writer
The City of Miami Beach held a ribbon-cutting ceremony May 15 to unveil the upgraded city commission chambers on the third floor of city hall.
“Our new chamber is the people’s house—a place of community featuring state-of-the-art amenities that our residents deserve,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “Residents can stay informed about their local government from the comfort of their homes as we broadcast 15 live public meetings each month on Miami Beach TV and online.
“We roll out the red carpet to usher in a new era of engagement and excellence for our city.”
Designed by architect and Miami Beach resident William Lane, the major renovations to the city’s primary meeting space were the first since the building opened in 1977. Lane also designed the city’s iconic lifeguard towers.
The eight-month renovation project includes 4K robotic video cameras and a new control room that can accommodate multiple camera angles, enhanced safety elements, upgraded video monitors, a new air-conditioning and ventilation system, increased presentation capabilities, a redesigned dais with a wheelchair lift and digital queuing system for elected officials.
Revamped space also features other accessibility enhancements consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, including improved closed-captioning experiences in English and Spanish.
There is seating for 210 in the combined lower and upper viewing galleries and 10 dedicated staff workstations have been added.
