MIAMI – Plans are officially a go for SkyRise Miami, the scenic skyscraper that will no doubt redefine Miami's skyline.
The building will be 100 stories tall, and will go up right behind Bayside in downtown Miami.
"It will be the tallest building on the eastern seaboard south of New York," said Jeff Berkowitz, the developer behind the $400 million project. "My structural engineer compares this to trying to stand a bridge on one side."
Berkowitz and his team cleared their final major hurdle just last week to finally bring the tower to life.
"Thanks to the voters of the city of Miami, we're going to work next week," said Berkowitz.
The construction of SkyRise will also bring a planned $30 million renovation to Bayside, paving the way for the entire area to become a first-class tourist destination.
"We've traveled extensively -- we viewed awesome towers all over the world -- this will be by far the best," said Berkowitz.
Little has changed from the original plans for the tower. The open-air hurricane-proof SkyRise will still have a 5-star restaurant, three observation decks with 40-mile views, a ballroom and a unique outdoor lounge.
"It looks like you're on the deck of a ship with wind pods and incredible views," said Berkowitz.
Bungee jumping and a thrilling amusement ride will also add character to the tower that is now slated to open in 2018.
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