Residents of Miami-Dade County voiced strong opposition to a proposed development project during a recent Planning Advisory Board meeting held on May 5, 2025. The project, which aims to construct 500 attached homes in an area currently designated for low-density residential use, has sparked significant concern among local residents regarding its compatibility with the existing neighborhood and the potential strain on infrastructure.

Community members expressed their fears about increased traffic, environmental impact, and the preservation of the area's agricultural character. Many speakers highlighted that the proposed development does not align with the current zoning regulations, which allow for only one house per acre or two and a half acres. Residents like Marilyn Rolfes and Josko Moller emphasized that the infrastructure in the area is inadequate to support such a large increase in housing, citing existing traffic issues and the potential destruction of local habitats.

In contrast, the developers, represented by Pedro Gaston of Bluenest Development, argued that the project is essential for addressing the county's housing crisis. They stated that the proposed homes would provide much-needed workforce housing, with a commitment to include 20% of the units as affordable for first-time buyers. Gaston pointed out that the average median sales price for homes in Miami-Dade has surged to $665,000, making homeownership increasingly unattainable for many residents.

The developers also assured that they would preserve environmentally sensitive areas and enhance local infrastructure, including connections to public water and sewer systems. They highlighted the economic benefits of the project, projecting significant increases in tax revenues and impact fees that would support local services.

As the meeting concluded, the board faced the challenge of balancing the urgent need for affordable housing against the concerns of residents who fear that the proposed development could disrupt their community's character and quality of life. The outcome of this proposal remains uncertain, as the board will deliberate on the community feedback and the developers' arguments in the coming weeks.