A Path Forward: The Underline’s Third Phase Breaks Ground Toward Kendall

MIAMI, FL — A bold vision of green space, wellness, and mobility is taking shape beneath the tracks of Miami’s Metrorail. Known as The Underline, the ambitious linear park and urban trail is now entering its most expansive stage yet: Phase 3, which broke ground last fall and is set to stretch the project deep into the heart of Miami-Dade.

When completed, Phase 3 will extend The Underline nearly 7.4 miles south from Coral Way to Dadeland South Metrorail Station, weaving through Coral Gables, South Miami, and parts of unincorporated Miami-Dade.

The completion target is mid-2026, but the transformation is already in motion.

From Transit Corridor to Public Oasis

Designed as a “linear park with a purpose,” The Underline is more than a beautification project. It’s a multipurpose corridor integrating walking and biking trails, art installations, performance areas, exercise zones, gardens, and community gathering spots — all running parallel to public transit.

Phase 1, known as the Brickell Backyard, opened in early 2021 and now buzzes daily with cyclists, joggers, yoga classes, and live art events. Phase 2, which debuted in spring 2024, continued the trail from the Miami River through Coral Way.

Now, Phase 3 is the largest and most complex leg, connecting over a dozen neighborhoods and serving as a green artery between some of Miami’s most dynamic communities.

What’s Coming in Phase 3

The $109 million third phase, funded through a mix of local, state, and federal sources, will introduce:

• 12 new amenity zones featuring native landscaping, exercise equipment, open-air classrooms, and shaded plazas.
• A dog park near Ponce de Leon Boulevard, a new community plaza at Douglas Road Station, and an urban garden space in South Miami.
• Over 1,800 new trees and 350,000 native plants, transforming heat-prone concrete zones into cooler, walkable greenways.
• Smart lighting, seating areas, bike repair stations, and public Wi-Fi to support both recreation and daily commuting.

The design was shaped through community input and environmental consultations, ensuring the spaces serve both practical and emotional needs of residents.

Mobility Meets Sustainability

The Underline’s long-term impact reaches far beyond leisure. It’s part of a county-wide mobility strategy, connecting with existing trails such as the South Dade Rail Trail, the upcoming Ludlam Trail, and the broader Miami Loop — a 31-mile network of connected paths designed to promote non-motorized travel.

With increasing traffic and extreme heat, The Underline offers a crucial alternative: shaded, safe paths that encourage walking and cycling. The route also enhances access to eight Metrorail stations, boosting usage of public transit.

“Every foot of The Underline is a step toward reducing emissions, increasing equity, and improving quality of life,” said Martinez.

Community Programs and Future Activation

While construction is underway, The Underline Foundation continues to host events in completed sections: free fitness classes, art walks, gardening workshops, and cultural pop-ups attract hundreds of residents each week.

As Phase 3 nears completion, plans are in place to expand programming into new neighborhoods, with a special emphasis on youth engagement and bilingual events.

A grand opening celebration is expected in summer 2026, though portions of the new trail may become accessible earlier as segments are finalized.