Proposal To Block Formula 1 Racing In Miami Gardens Defeated
MIAMI (CBSMiami) - Formula 1 racing is one step closer to coming to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens after a proposed ordinance that would have stopped the race in its tracks failed Wednesday in a 6-6 vote.
The measure would have required approval from both, the county and the city of Miami Gardens for the race to take place.
The ordinance, introduced by Miami-Dade County Commissioner Barbara Jordan, who represents Miami Gardens, opposed the race on grounds that it would bring noise and more traffic to area neighborhoods.
A statement from Formula one read: "We welcome the outcome from the commissioners meeting in Miami today and look forward to the continued progress to bring Formula 1 to Miami-Dade County. We expect this to be an incredible race on the F1 calendar in one of the most exciting cities in the world to visit."
Tom Garfinkel, Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium Vice Chairman and CEO had this to say about the decision:
"We are happy that the commissioners reaffirmed again today that the Hard Rock Stadium entertainment complex is a regional facility that exists to benefit all of Miami-Dade County. We are glad to put this long-delayed vote behind us so we can begin to make the multi-million dollar private investment required to bring a race here, and have positive and productive conversations with local leadership about the many benefits that a global event of this nature brings."
Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez, a proponent of the race, said: "It's good for the community and will bring millions."
The debate on the proposed race has ensued since organizers turned their sights for a Formula 1 track away from Downtown Miami back in April, and toward Miami Gardens.
Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver Gilbert and the rest of Miami Gardens city council oppose the race coming to their city.