Miami Beach has unveiled a groundbreaking underwater sculpture park, a significant step in creating artificial coral reefs. This innovative project, named 'Concrete Coral,' features 22 marine-grade concrete cars submerged off South Beach. These structures will soon host thousands of lab-grown native corals, aiming to revitalize marine ecosystems and boost local ecotourism.
Key Takeaways
- 22 marine-grade concrete cars form the first phase of an underwater sculpture park.
- The project, 'Concrete Coral,' aims to create artificial coral reefs off Miami Beach.
- 2,200 lab-grown native corals will be attached to the sculptures to foster marine life.
- The initiative is a collaboration of art and science, partially funded by a $5 million bond.
- It seeks to enhance biodiversity, offer ecotourism opportunities, and create jobs.
Reefline's Vision for Coastal Restoration
The nonprofit organization REEFLINE is spearheading this ambitious project. Their vision combines artistic expression with scientific coral restoration efforts. The goal is to establish a thriving underwater habitat that mimics natural reef systems.
Crews worked for several days in late October 2025 to lower the life-sized concrete cars into the ocean. These vehicles now rest several hundred feet off the coast of South Beach. The unusual sight marks a new chapter for marine conservation in the region.
Project Facts
- Number of Sculptures: 22 concrete cars
- Coral Count: 2,200 native corals
- Depth: Approximately 20 feet (6 meters)
- Distance from Shore: About 800 feet (240 meters)
- Initial Funding: $5 million from Miami Beach bond
Art Meets Science Underwater
Ximena Caminos, founder of REEFLINE, emphasized the unique nature of the project. She stated, "I think we are making history here. It's one of a kind, it's a pioneering, underwater reef that's teaming up with science, teaming up with art." Caminos conceived the overall plan with architect Shohei Shigematsu. Artist Leandro Erlich designed the car sculptures for this initial phase.
The artistic choice of concrete cars carries a symbolic message. Colin Foord, REEFLINE's director of science, noted, "I think it really lends to the depth of the artistic message itself of having a traffic jam of cars underwater." He added, "So nature's gonna take back over, and we're helping by growing the soft corals."
Coral Cultivation and Resilience
The native corals destined for the 'Concrete Coral' park are currently growing in REEFLINE's Miami lab. These corals are primarily gorgonian soft corals. Mr. Foord expressed confidence in their survival and growth.
Crucially, the lab-grown corals come from survivors of the devastating 2023 bleaching event. A marine heatwave during that period caused widespread coral mortality in Florida. By using resilient strains, scientists hope to build a more robust reef ecosystem.
The Threat of Coral Bleaching
Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel the algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn white. This happens due to stressors like increased ocean temperatures. Bleached corals are not dead but are under severe stress and can die if conditions do not improve. The 2023 marine heatwave significantly impacted Florida's coral reefs, highlighting the urgent need for conservation and restoration efforts.
Future Expansion and Economic Impact
The current installation is just the beginning of a much larger vision. REEFLINE aims to raise an additional $40 million to expand the project. This potentially 11-phase initiative would stretch along an underwater corridor spanning Miami Beach's 7-mile (11-kilometer) coastline.
Future installations are already planned. These include Petroc Sesti's "Heart of Okeanos," designed to resemble a giant blue whale heart. Another project, "The Miami Reef Star," by Carlos Betancourt and Alberto Latorre, will feature starfish shapes arranged in a larger star pattern.
"What that's going to do is accelerate the formation of a coral reef ecosystem. It's going to attract a lot more life and add biodiversity and really kind of push the envelope of artificial reef-building here in Florida."
Boosting Ecotourism and Job Creation
Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner anticipates significant benefits from the project. He believes it will generate local jobs through ecotourism experiences. Activities like snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboard tours will allow visitors to explore the new underwater world.
The reefs are strategically located to be accessible for such activities. They lie about 20 feet (6 meters) below the surface and roughly 800 feet (240 meters) from the shore. This proximity makes them ideal for both experienced divers and casual snorkelers.
Community Engagement and Global Model
Beyond the physical installation, REEFLINE is committed to community education. The nonprofit offers programs where volunteers can work alongside scientists to plant corals. A floating marine learning center also provides monthly hands-on experience in coral conservation.
Mayor Meiner expressed pride in Miami Beach's role. "Miami Beach is a global model for so many different issues, and now we're doing it for REEFLINE," he stated during a beachside ceremony. He hopes the project will serve as a blueprint for other cities facing similar environmental challenges.
While acknowledging that the installation alone cannot solve monumental problems like climate change and sea level rise, Caminos sees it as a catalyst. She believes it can foster dialogue about the critical value of coastal ecosystems. "We can show how creatively, collaboratively and interdisciplinarily we can all tackle a man-made problem with man-made solutions," Caminos concluded.
