Miami-Dade County opened the bidding process for a massive 23.7 million square foot Downtown Miami development project called Metrocenter.

One of the main priorities in evaluating bids will be whether the proposals are of world-class urban design, including excellence in architecture, walkability, and if they are transit-oriented (Metrorail, Metromover, Brightline and others are either at or adjacent to the properties). The county will also evaluate whether proposals are of the highest and best use, with uses such as housing, commercial, hospitality, and retail that contribute to the economic base of the area.

The historic Dade County Courthouse is not included in the Metrocenter development. Although the courthouse is due to move to a new building next door, a sale is already in process, with adaptive-reuse of the 1925 structure a requirement rather than demolition and redevelopment, the county said.

To view the full Metrocenter Request For Proposals, click here.

(source: thenextmiami.com, picture: thenextmiami.com)