Metropica's $1.5 Billion Development to Transform Sunrise with Urban Downtown Core

The $1.5 billion Metropica development project represents a transformative investment for Sunrise and western Broward County, addressing the city's lack of an urban downtown core while creating a comprehensive live-work-play environment. Approved for 3,000 residential units, 650,000 square feet of office space, 485,000 square feet of retail, and two hotels on a 50-acre site between Sawgrass Mills and Amerant Bank Arena, the development will establish Sunrise's first true urban section in an otherwise suburban landscape.

Metropica's strategic importance extends beyond its physical footprint, as evidenced by the recent landmark agreement where developers donated 19 acres of land to the Florida Turnpike Authority via a memorandum with the city. This high-cost donation, which required changes to stormwater retention plans, enables the design and construction of a full access interchange at Pat Salerno Drive and the Sawgrass Expressway (State Road 869), significantly improving traffic flow for the area that will ultimately host 16,000 to 18,000 people daily.

The project's phased development approach builds on the success of One Metropica, a 28-story, 263-residence condominium building that resulted from collaboration between Metropica Development, internationally renowned architect Chad Oppenheim, and London-based interior designer YOO Design Group. The next phase includes 1,000 luxury rental apartments, a retail plaza with restaurants and entertainment, and one of the two planned hotels, further establishing Metropica as the downtown focal point where residents can walk to everything they need.

Guided by the principles of Nature, Wellness, and Happiness, the development incorporates green spaces and top-tier amenities designed to enhance residents' quality of life. This approach positions Metropica as complementary to other significant area investments, including the new Baptist hospital, the American Express campus, and the Florida Panthers' new development, collectively solidifying this section of Sunrise as a rapidly growing, high-demand neighborhood that addresses the region's need for urbanized living options.