The historic courthouse of Miami-Dade, known as the Palace of Justice and located at 73 W. Flagler St., is set to be listed for sale with an initial offering of $52.3 million. County authorities have announced that the deadline to submit offers will be in early September, and the multimillion-dollar building faces conservation challenges as it is considered an urban heritage site.
The Miami-Dade Palace of Justice was constructed in 1925. This neoclassical-style building was designed by architect Albert Anthony Ten Eyck Brown (1878–1940) and was completed within three years. Originally, the 27-story property housed the City Hall, the courthouse, and a jail.
In 1989, the Palace was included in the National Register of Historic Places for its unique architectural design, making it a part of the urban heritage of the Sunshine City. Over the years, maintaining the building has presented several challenges. In 2013, minor erosion was detected in the basement columns, raising concerns about its structural integrity and the expensive restoration process it would require.
In 2021, the building, then serving as a civil courthouse, was evacuated for safety reasons. This decision came after the collapse of a condominium in Surfside, which tragically resulted in the death of 98 people. The evacuation marked a critical point in the history of the Palace of Justice, highlighting the need to find a new owner for the property.
County officials are seeking a buyer, but it is not an easy task as the new owner must be someone sensitive to heritage, who respects the history of this iconic building, and who is also a millionaire. Property records indicate that the appraised value of the building exceeds $43 million. The initial offer of $52.3 million reflects both the historical value and the renovation potential of the property.
The pre-bid conference is scheduled for July 15. Two tours to showcase the property are planned for July 27 and August 3. The deadline for submitting questions about its technical condition and other details is August 23, and bids must be submitted before September 4.
American judges expressed their regret over the sale of the building to Local 10, and their hopes that the future owner will be able to preserve the historical value of the Miami-Dade Palace of Justice.
Details on the Sale of Miami-Dade's Historic Courthouse
For those interested in the sale of the Miami-Dade Palace of Justice, here are some common questions and answers that might be helpful.
Why is the Miami-Dade Palace of Justice being sold?
The building is being sold due to its structural challenges and the need for extensive and costly restorations. Additionally, the evacuation in 2021 highlighted the urgency of finding a new owner.
What is the significance of the initial offer of $52.3 million?
The initial offer reflects both the historical importance and the potential for renovation of the property. The appraised value of the building exceeds $43 million.
When are the key dates for the sale process?
The pre-bid conference is on July 15, with property tours on July 27 and August 3. Questions about the property must be submitted by August 23, and bids are due by September 4.