On Saturday, December 19th, 2009 Season High Point Chamion Steve David met with a group that is working to return Unlimited Hydroplane racing and other water sports to historic Miami Marine Stadium.
The group included Jorge Hernandez, the University of Miami instructor whose architecture students are doing the plans for the redevelopment of the stadium and Don Winer and Jessica O'Conner who produce a GP race in Stuart, Florida.
Also on hand was Don Worth, representing the larger groups Friends of Miami Marine Stadium and the Dade Heritage Trust.
L to R: Jorge Hernandez, Jerry Warren, Jessica O'Connor, Steve David, Muffy Warren, Don Worth, Don Winer
David said he found the meeting and the climate in Miami toward getting
the stadium back in operation very encouraging, pointing out that the
new Mayor is very positive about the project and many of the political
issues that plagued the facility in the past have been dealt with.
David explained that, "The Dade Heritage Trust and Friends of the Stadium are larger groups, working on the potential renovation of the grandstands and the overall facility. This group is concerned with boat racing in particular and could even accomplish the return of racing to the bay before the grandstands and other facilities are back in use."
The Stadium was built in 1964, designed by the firm now referred to as Spillis
Candela DMJM, Hilario Candela principal designer. Initially used for power boat
races, it became a location for concerts, sunrise services and many other
community events. Initial cost of the Stadium was $2 million.
The Stadium
was closed in 1992 after Hurricane Andrew. An engineering study commissioned by
the City at the time stated that the damage was modest and could be repaired for
approximately $1 million. Unfortunately, the repairs were not made.
