Miami Beach police and fire marine units will share a single waterfront headquarters for the first time after the city broke ground Friday, July 24, on a $13 million facility at Maurice Gibb Memorial Park.

The new three-story building at 18th Street and Purdy Avenue in Sunset Harbour will replace a 2,500-square-foot structure that housed only the police marine patrol. At 10,924 square feet, the replacement is more than four times larger.

"This new Marine Patrol Facility is a major investment in the safety and protection of our waterways and neighborhoods," Mayor Steven Meiner said in a statement issued July 21. "This facility will ensure our police and fire marine units have the space, technology and coordination they need to respond quickly and effectively."

The city confirmed on Facebook that the ceremony took place Friday morning at the park site.

What's inside

The ground floor will include a visitor lobby, public restrooms, a park office, covered boat storage and separate equipment storage for police and fire marine gear. The second floor will serve as headquarters for the Miami Beach Police Department Marine Patrol Unit and feature a shared gym for first responders. The third floor is dedicated to the Miami Beach Fire Department Marine Patrol Unit.

Funding and timeline

The project is partially funded by the 2018 General Obligation Bond, which Miami Beach voters approved in 2018. The city has not disclosed what share of the $13 million comes from bond proceeds versus other funds.

Lunacon Construction Group was awarded the construction contract and is performing the work. The Miami Beach City Commission approved the contract on Wednesday, March 18, according to commission agenda records.

The city's press release projects completion in summer 2027. It will be the first time both agencies' marine operations run out of a single building.