MIAMI'S GOT A BLACK EYE?
(WOLLMAN RINK 2.0)

 

 

OPEN LETTER

to

President Donald J. Trump,

Governor Ron DeSantis

&

Mayor Eileen Higgins

January 11, 2026

SaveMiamiMarineStadium.Org

 

 

"Miami's Got a Black Eye?" is a Campaign to Save the Miami Marine Stadium, a one of a kind Historic National Treasure of the United States. 

 

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HELP!!!

 

Dear President Donald J. Trump, Governor Ron DeSantis & Mayor Eileen Higgins:​​​

 

On September 5th, 2025, "Miami's Black Eye" was dealt another blow. It was the deadline, and 3 out of the 5 Miami commissioners, who needed to send the referendum to the ballot for voters to vote on November 4th 2025, did not show up.

 

3 out of the 5 commissioners did not show up to vote for the estimated $60 million needed to complete the restoration of the stadium and adjacent visitors center building. One commissioner was "feeling under the weather," another had "prior family plans," and another was on a "preplanned trip." 

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However, most people in Miami had no idea that this vote was even supposed to take place. This lends to the idea that a campaign is necessary to keep this project on the minds and hearts of voters. Hence, SaveMiamiMarineStadium.org.

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Furthermore, on the eve of the commissioners' vote, an ethics scandal erupts concerning the company that was supposed to be overseeing the Miami Marine Stadium restoration project.

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At "SaveMiamiMarineStadium.org," its readers will find all the information they need to fully understand what is at risk here.

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President Trump, we have a "Wollman Rink 2.0" situation that's been going on for over 30 years. The Miami Marine Stadium embodies everything that the Miami lifestyle is about. We live in Florida, the sunshine and saltwater state, where the only Marine Stadium in the world has been sitting in ruins for over 30 years. 

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SHAME ON US ALL?

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As a resident of Miami, Florida, and someone who values our nation's rich historic and cultural landmarks, I am writing this open letter to urge your immediate attention and support for the restoration of the Miami Marine Stadium. This iconic structure, located on Virginia Key in Miami, is not just a local gem but an actual National Treasure—recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 2018, and celebrated for its groundbreaking modernist design by Cuban-American architect Hilario Candela. Built in 1963 as the first stadium in the United States, it has hosted legendary events, powerboat racing, thrilling races, star-studded concerts, and community gatherings. It embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines Florida and our nation.

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For over three decades, since its closure following Hurricane Andrew in 1992, the Miami Marine Stadium has stood abandoned, its concrete grandeur weathered by time and neglect. Despite dedicated efforts from local advocates, including the Friends of Miami Marine Stadium and the City of Miami, progress has been frustratingly slow. While there have been positive steps—such as the approval of $45 million in bonds in 2016, a $3 million grant from Miami-Dade County, and a recent $1.25 million Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) grant—these funds have not translated into the comprehensive restoration this site deserves. Delays in bureaucratic processes and funding allocation have left this architectural marvel at risk of further deterioration, depriving future generations of its historical and recreational potential.

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 A NATIONAL TREASURE?

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During our research into the history of the Miami Marine Stadium, we discovered that not only is it the first of its kind in the United States, it's actually the only one of its kind in the entire world. This makes the Miami Marine Stadium not just a Treasure of the state of Florida, but also a National Treasure of the entire United States.

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That means it qualifies for State and Federal Grants, which is much better than bonds. 

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And if the grants do not cover the entire $60 Million, we have to come up with a contingency plan to raise the balance through a one year long fundraising campaign on gofundme.com via savemiamimarinestadium.org.

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The Miami Marine Stadium represents more than a building; it is a symbol of American ingenuity and a catalyst for economic revitalization in South Florida. Restoring it would create jobs, boost tourism, and transform Virginia Key into a vibrant waterfront destination, aligning perfectly with your shared commitments to infrastructure development, historic preservation, and making America great again. Imagine a fully restored stadium hosting events that draw visitors from across the nation, contributing to Florida's economy while honoring our heritage.

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I respectfully request that you use your influential positions to fast track state and federal grants for this project. Governor DeSantis, your leadership in Florida's growth and preservation initiatives could expedite state-level approvals and additional funding through agencies like the Florida Department of Environmental Protection or the Division of Historical Resources. President Trump, your administration's focus on efficient government and national landmarks could unlock federal resources from the National Park Service's Historic Preservation Fund or other programs under the Department of the Interior, cutting through red tape to ensure swift action.

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Time is of the essence for this irreplaceable piece of history. By prioritizing the Miami Marine Stadium, you would not only safeguard a national treasure but also inspire communities nationwide to invest in their cultural legacies. I, along with countless Floridians and Americans, stand ready to support this effort and thank you in advance for your consideration and decisive leadership.

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Sincerely, Kenneth Nelson

North Miami, Florida​​​

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