Cutler Bay mayor announces 87th Avenue Bridge is open

Mayor Tim Mierbod announced at the 87th Avenue Bridge that the crossing is open, calling the completion “long time coming” and thanking local leaders and county agencies for their roles in the project.

Mierbod said the process included community meetings organized by Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins and input from local residents of Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay. He named committee members Aliyah Hopner, Paul Blake, Sandra Olivios and Michelle Craven for volunteering to discuss the issue and represent local viewpoints.

The mayor said Miami‑Dade County staff participated in the planning process. “Fire Rescue chimed in that this bridge will help reduce response times and help save lives,” he said, describing the safety rationale county responders provided. He framed the bridge as intended to improve emergency access and transportation for the South Dade area.

Mierbod acknowledged objections raised earlier by some Palmetto Bay residents about traffic effects but said the project’s goal was to increase connectivity for both communities. He added that town and county officials will continue to work together on connectivity and related traffic matters.

The mayor closed by expressing excitement about the opening and offering a short blessing for the community.