Protecting the Coconut Grove Playhouse from Demolition

The Law Office of Lowell J. Kuvin along with clients, Barbara Lang and Katrina Morris, are spearheading the effort to save the Coconut Grove Playhouse. Miami-Dade County recently proposed that the Coconut Grove Playhouse be torn down and that only the façade and front lobby would remain. A significantly smaller new 300-seat theatre, a parking garage, retail shops and luxury condominiums would replace the 1000-seat theatre, which was built in 1927.

On April 4, 2017, the City of Miami Historical and Environmental Protection Board (HEP Board) granted Miami-Dade County’s application for a Certificate of Appropriateness by a vote of 4-1. Board Member Lynn B. Lewis was the only board member who said there was not enough information to make an informed decision because the plans that were submitted contained almost zero details regarding the design, data concerning adverse impacts on the historic context of the Playhouse, adjacent properties and neighborhoods including historic Charles Avenue, traffic and parking, and the use of the bond funds for building a garage and retail spaces.

The hearing on the Appeal (which can be viewed here) will be held at the City of Miami City Hall on June 22, 2017. The date of the appeal hearing is subject to change, so please make sure to double check before heading out.

You can also speak out by emailing your City of Miami representatives. The contact information for all of the City of Miami representatives can be found by clicking this link.