To wildlife managers, the pine rockland surrounding Zoo Miami represents what could be a last stand for the embattled forest, the biggest swath found outside the protected confines of Everglades National Park and a rare tract that has withstood the decades-long onslaught of development in South Florida.
But to a Miami-Dade County consultant, the land is a slum.
The finding, part of an updated look at the area, is the first step in establishing a special taxing district the county needs to help generate $130 million requested by a team of developers, including 20th Century Fox and Sony Music, who want to build a $930 million amusement park in the area. The consultant’s report is also fueling growing criticism from environmentalists and some neighbors, who oppose the park and plans for a neighboring shopping center. They plan to rally to save the property Jan. 17 near the zoo.
