West Miami-Dade's wetlands face industrial showdown over Kelly Tractor plan

A long-running debate over a proposed industrial development in West Miami-Dade has intensified. The plan by Kelly Tractor to relocate its headquarters to a 245-acre site near State Road 836 and Northwest 137th Avenue has faced repeated opposition. County commissioners discussed the issue for the fourth time The controversy centres on over 200 acres of wetlands that Kelly Tractor aims to develop. Environmental advocates have stressed the need to protect these areas, especially during Florida’s ongoing drought. Part of the proposed site also lies outside Miami-Dade’s urban development boundary, adding to regulatory hurdles.

Kelly Tractor, which bought the land in 1984, first submitted its application three years ago. Despite pushback, company president Christopher Kelly confirmed plans to keep advancing the proposal. Meanwhile, Commissioner JC Bermudez has been a vocal opponent, while Mayor Daniella Levine Cava has expressed scepticism about its viability. The matter remains unresolved, with commissioners set to revisit it at their next meeting on June 2.

The proposal’s future hinges on the upcoming vote. If approved, the development would reshape a large stretch of wetlands in West Miami-Dade. If rejected, Kelly Tractor may need to reconsider its expansion plans or seek alternative locations.