From the Golden Gate Bridge to Big Ben to the Statue of Liberty most major cities have major landmarks that come to mind, and these landmarks become representative of their respective cities. These bridges, buildings, and structures will not only define their skyline but also allude to their city’s history, culture, and ambition. Yet when we think about Miami, a universally recognized landmark fails to come to mind. While Miami’s beaches, Art Deco buildings, and Wynwood murals are iconic, they’re more elements of a broader character rather than a standout landmark themselves. Miami is missing such a landmark, and their importance should not be understated.

Landmarks, as defined by Jane Jacobs, are visually orienting reference points within a city. In her book, The Death and Life of Great American Cities, she explains that they are usually prominent or unique in appearance, which makes them easily recognizable. This design influence can have a rippling aesthetic and architectural influence in the area, which could benefit tourism and economic growth. Landmarks can also affect people personally, by creating a sense of identity and place for them to experience. However, Jacobs points out that a landmark’s true significance comes from how it connects with its surroundings.

In the heart of Miami, by Northeast Second Avenue and Biscayne Boulevard, an exciting new construction project is currently underway that may come to meet Jacob’s descriptor’s for ‘landmark’. This $818 million project, funded by the Florida Department of Transportation and the Miami-Dade Expressway Authority, will feature a new Signature Bridge that will carry a portion of the highway above a key node within the Downtown district. The design will be that of arches which will not only carry the bridge, but evoke a feeling of ocean waves, which aligns with Miami’s coastal identity. It will feature six sweeping arches that span over 1,025 feet in length, with the tallest arch reaching up to 330 feet above ground. The arches will be made up of precast concrete segments totaling 345, of which 161 have already been cast. Although construction is currently ongoing, the expected completion date is set for late 2027.

Additionally, the new Signature Bridge will integrate elements of urban design that connect the city’s districts, offering spaces underneath for public use such as parks and recreational areas. This will further embed the bridge into the daily life of Miami, making it more than just a transportation route but part of the community’s fabric. As Jane Jacobs highlighted, a good landmark is not isolated but deeply connected to its surroundings. The Signature Bridge, by linking neighborhoods and offering new public spaces, could become a cornerstone of Miami’s identity, fostering a sense of place and belonging, while showcasing the city’s cultural and architectural potential. Miami, long known for its natural beauty and vibrant culture, will soon have a landmark that stands proudly alongside the world’s most iconic structures, signaling a new era for the city.