Miami Approves $3B Little River District: Largest Affordable Housing Development in County History

In a landmark move for Miami’s urban evolution, the Miami-Dade County Commission has officially approved the Little River District, a groundbreaking $3 billion development poised to reshape the fabric of the Little River and Little Haiti neighborhoods. Spearheaded by SG Holdings — a partnership between Swerdlow Group, SJM Partners, and Alben Duffie — the transformative 63-acre master plan will become the largest affordable housing initiative in Miami-Dade County history.

At the heart of this ambitious project are over 5,700 housing units, with a strong emphasis on affordability and accessibility. The plan includes:

• 2,284 affordable rental units (targeting 60% Area Median Income),

• 1,398 workforce rental units (up to 120% AMI),

• 2,048 workforce condominium units (eligible for subsidy at up to 140% AMI).

Crucially, the development guarantees current public housing residents the right to return to newly built homes within the district — without rent increases — ensuring existing communities aren’t displaced but rather uplifted.

A Vision for Equitable Urban Growth

The Little River District isn’t just about housing. It’s a mixed-use, transit-oriented community that will blend residential, retail, green space, and mobility infrastructure to support long-term economic and social growth.

Key highlights include:

• 370,000+ square feet of retail space, with tenants like Home Depot and BJ’s already signed on.

• A major supermarket, gas station, food and beverage offerings, and essential neighborhood services.

• 250,000 square feet of green, open space including parks, shaded walking paths, and bike lanes.

• A new Tri-Rail train station, backed by a $35 million private investment to boost connectivity and reduce congestion.

Designed by globally renowned firm Arquitectonica, the project embraces sustainable, pedestrian-friendly design and thoughtful urban planning.

Historic Public-Private Collaboration

The project reflects a strong collaboration between private and public sectors, including:

• Miami-Dade County’s Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD)

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

• City of Miami, with support from Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, County Commissioner Keon Hardemon, and City Commission Chairwoman Christine King.

“This approval is a major milestone in addressing Miami’s critical need for affordable and workforce housing,” said Michael Swerdlow, Founder and CEO of Swerdlow Group. “The Little River District will deliver a community that prioritizes quality housing, public transit, and local economic opportunity.”

Community Amenities and Long-Term Impact

Future residents of the Little River District can expect thoughtfully designed homes featuring:

• In-unit washers and dryers, granite countertops, dishwashers, and central air.

• Complimentary high-speed internet for three years.

• Onsite management, security systems, fitness centers, swimming pools, computer labs, and dedicated recreation areas.

Beyond the residences, the project promises robust economic benefits:

• 3,840+ construction jobs and 518 permanent jobs.

• Local hiring preferences, especially for low-income and public housing residents.

• $9.5 billion in potential County revenue, the largest revenue-sharing agreement of its kind in Miami-Dade’s history.

Construction of the Little River District is slated to begin in 2026, with full buildout projected over an eight-year timeline. Once complete, this community-driven development will stand as a national model for inclusive urban revitalization, proving that equitable housing, thoughtful design, and economic development can go hand in hand.