Southeast Florida is in the midst of a sweeping wave of construction and infrastructure investment, with major civic, cultural, hospitality, and transportation projects reshaping Broward and Miami-Dade counties. From large-scale convention center expansions to landmark bridge construction and long-term rail planning, regional leaders say these developments will drive economic growth, strengthen mobility, and support the area’s continued population increase.
One of the largest projects currently underway, the Broward County Convention Center has completed a transformative expansion, adding 1.2 million square feet and elevating it to one of the most significant event facilities in the region. The 34-year-old center now features:
The more than $1 billion investment is expected to generate substantial long-term economic returns, with Broward County projecting increased tourism, higher visitor spending, and job creation tied to convention-driven activity.
Transportation access to the center has also dramatically improved. A new bypass opened in late October now provides direct access from U.S. Route 1, passing above Port Everglades. Additional upgrades are planned for 2026, including:
To meet rising lodging needs for exhibitors and visitors, the adjacent Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel is set to open soon, featuring 29 stories and more than 800 rooms. According to Visit Lauderdale, the overall expansion initiative is expected to create 3,000 jobs across Broward County.
Alongside major commercial projects, cultural investment is also expanding. Earlier this month, the Hollywood Art and Culture Center celebrated its 50th anniversary and the debut of its new Arts Hub extension, funded through the 2019 General Obligation Bond supported by voters. The new wing includes:
The addition strengthens Hollywood’s role as a growing cultural destination within the region.
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In April 2025, Broward County Commissioners advanced the planning for Broward County Rail (BCR) North, a proposed 15.5-mile passenger rail line connecting Fort Lauderdale to Deerfield Beach. Running along the existing Florida East Coast (FEC) Railway corridor, the project would serve several communities, including:
Local officials say the BCR North project would boost economic development, raise property values, improve mobility, and reduce congestion as Broward’s population continues to surge. However, with the project still in early planning, the earliest possible operational date is 2036, meaning residents will need to wait more than a decade before seeing service.
One of Miami’s most visually striking infrastructure projects, the I-395 Signature Bridge, continues to take shape. Known informally as the “Fountain Bridge,” the structure has already become a recognizable feature for drivers heading into Miami from I-95. Key project highlights include:
When finished, the bridge will modernize traffic flow at the I-395/MacArthur Causeway interchange, enhancing connectivity between Miami and Miami Beach and adding a new architectural icon to the city’s skyline.
Originally reported by Flore Kayl in Le Soleil De La Floride.
