Could Miapolis steal Burj Khalifa's crown?

Miapolis: A city within a city

Here at Infrastructure US, we love things that are colossal, over-sized achievements of architecture. Of course, if they are eco-friendly, that is an enormous bonus. It is therefore with great excitement that we cast our eyes over plans to build a super-skyscraper in Miami, that would not only be 183 metres taller than the Burj Khalifa, but the largest LEED-certified structure at any rating level in the United States.

Miapolis, as it is called, is world's tallest proposed building and if built, would stand at 3,200ft high. Situated on Miami's Watson Island, it is hoping to rejuvenate the area turning the Florida city into an international financial center as well as a tourist destination for those seeking sun and sand.

"City within a city"

However, Miapolis wouldn't just be 'another super-skyscraper' with office space and some luxurious apartments, it has been designed to be a literal “city within a city.” It would house an amusement park, observatory, restaurants, 1.96 million sq ft of shops, over 1000 apartments, 1 million sq ft office space and a 792 room hotel.

What is even more impressive is that the city would be run using state-of-the-art sustainable systems, making the structure 'platinum green' in terms of environmental friendliness. Eco-systems would include powering 60 percent of  products by wind energy, a modular green roof, greenhouse gas management, water desalinization, storm and waste-water management, solid waste management, electric trolleys, carbon emissions offsets, and carbon sequestration.

Not just that, but if it gets the go-ahead Miapolis will create 35,000 permanent jobs, pay off $39 million debt owed to the City and inject $2.5 billion annually into the local economy.

According to the super-city's website, "Miapolis is about innovation and creativity. (It is also) an economic engine, and a sensible and rational solution for the local economy by resolving the Jungle Island debts while producing $942 million annually in tax revenues, and no taxpayer funds required.

"Miapolis would provide constant and free worldwide exposure of Miami, increasing tourism, international trade, passengers and cargo for the airlines, MIA and the Port of Miami, and will benefit all of Downtown by attracting millions of visitors annually."

While the skyscraper's height needs to be approved by the MIA/FAA, fund raising is currently underway so if you are interested in a "low five figure investment with a preferred return and an equity participation", go to the above link. For us, we'll just marvel at the impressive design and architect's unwavering desire to build things big.

Oh and it's rumoured to cost $22 billion!

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Timon Singh

Timon Singh is a graduate of Liverpool University where he received a degree in Social and Economic History. He has previously worked for BBC Magazines on BBC Who Do You Think You Are? Magazine, the publication for the popular genealogy show.

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