Billionaire Jeffrey Soffer’s plan to build a water park at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach resort is facing significant resistance from residents, activists, and city officials. The proposal aims to redevelop the historic hotel’s outdoor pool area into a family attraction featuring a 12-story waterslide structure.
At a recent meeting of the Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board, many neighboring residents and community leaders voiced concerns about the project. The board decided to postpone its vote on whether to approve 11 variances requested by Fontainebleau Development until January 13. These variances would permit construction of multiple waterslides, a children’s play pool, updated bathrooms, cabanas, and related facilities.
Fontainebleau Development stated that the water park represents an “opportunity to properly activate its iconic and internationally-known hotel brand to strengthen community opportunities and be part of the solution that fortifies the city’s future.” The company added: “We remain committed to ongoing conversations with area neighbors, stakeholders, and city leaders to ensure the plan aligns with all guidelines while also honoring the character of the historic property.”
During the meeting, lobbyist and land use attorney Mickey Marrero argued that adding a water park is necessary for Fontainebleau Miami Beach to compete with other major resorts in the region. “Our competitors are not small hotels in Miami Beach,” Marrero said. “Our competitors are regional destinations for families and tourists…that are bringing amenities beyond what we have traditionally seen in the past. We need to keep in line with that. It is critical to the future success of the hotel.”
Despite these arguments, nearly three dozen people spoke against the project while only one resident expressed support. Opponents raised concerns about preserving architectural heritage and managing increased traffic congestion.
“You guys are the last line of defense for historic architecture in Miami Beach,” said attorney and local resident Mark Weiss. “And Lord, we need some saving here today. The Fontainebleau is a landmark, not a theme park.”
Roger Goldblatt from the Miami Design Preservation League and Anamarie Ferreira de Melo from MidBeach Neighborhood Association both stated their organizations oppose building a water park at this site. Goldblatt told board members: “The waterslide structure would dramatically alter one of Miami Beach’s most iconic properties and set a concerning precedent.”
Members of the preservation board also questioned whether such an addition fits within its context. Board member Randy Hollingsworth described it as “just massive,” while Mitch Novick commented: “This is out of context, quite frankly. I don’t find any way to make this compatible with the neighborhood.”
Marrero responded by saying that Fontainebleau Development will continue discussions with residents and neighborhood associations about possible adjustments: “We put a lot of time, effort and funding into this,” he said. “We would like the opportunity to make adjustments to make it work.”
