Biltmore Neighborhood Association
Uniting Community, Preserving Quality of Life
Who WE aRE
About Us
BNA champions the essence of Coral Gables living and George Merrick’s vision, rallying the community to safeguard our cherished neighborhood and preserve our collective quality of life.
WHAT WE DO
Our Tenets
- Community Unity: Bringing neighbors together to protect the essence of Coral Gables living.
- Quality of Life Advocacy: Ensuring the tranquility and prosperity of our neighborhoods.
- Expert Insight: Leveraging professional consultation to defend against intrusive developments.
- Transparent Communication: Keeping residents informed and engaged throughout the process.
- Citywide Impact: Recognizing that our fight is not isolated, but a safeguard for all of Coral Gables.
WHY WE EXIST
Our Goals
- To prevent development, zoning and use changes that allow projects that are not in scale with our neighborhood and will, therefore, adversely affect our quality of life and lower property values.
- To prevent private/commercial use of public areas, including but not limited to the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center.
- To protect green areas and waterways.
- To prevent commercial development around our area from impacting the environment or quality of life, and to prevent erosion of the codes, ordinances, and laws that protect us.
- To make streets and sidewalks safer for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.
- To foster favorable relations with government entities.
our story
In the heart of Coral Gables lies a sanctuary of tranquil living, the Biltmore Neighborhood. Here, residents cherish not just their homes, but the vibrant community and peaceful atmosphere that make this area truly special. When threats of overdevelopment loom, threatening to disrupt the harmony we've cultivated, the Biltmore Neighborhood Association rises to defend our way of life. With a spirit of unity and determination, since 2010 we've stood against proposals that would erode the very fabric of our neighborhoods.
From the outset, our mission has been clear: to protect what makes Coral Gables unique. When faced with Academica/Somerset's ambitious plans, we knew we couldn't stand idly by and continue to be vigilant today. Their newest proposal in 2024 of a sprawling school complex will not only disrupt traffic and infringe upon our already busy streets but also jeopardize the tranquility we hold dear. Despite a settlement agreement between the BNA and Somerset Academy that capped enrollment at 260 students, they’re back -- this time seeking 700 students.
But our fight isn't just about one neighborhood; it's a beacon for all of Coral Gables. Recognizing the broader implications, we've opened our arms to neighbors across the city, rallying together in defense of our collective City home. Through transparent communication and community engagement, we're empowering residents to join us in preserving the essence of Coral Gables living.
As the BNA continues to navigate the bureaucratic channels, we invite you to stand with us. Together, we can protect our oasis, ensuring that future generations can experience the unparalleled beauty and tranquility of Coral Gables living. Join us as we unite communities, preserve lifestyles, and pave the way for a brighter, more harmonious future!
Key Documents & Information
The Biltmore Neighborhood Association and Somerset Academy entered into a Settlement Agreement in 2012 which capped total student enrollments at 260
Filed with the County, these restrictive covenants bind Somerset Academy, University Baptist Church, and the City of Coral Gables to be responsible for and ensure compliance in agreeing to increase student enrollments from 110 students to 260 students in 2012.
Violating the 2012 Settlement Agreement, in May 2024 Somerset Academy applied to increase student enrollment from 260 students to 700.
Presentation by Somerset Academy’s lobbyists, Holland & Knight, to the Development Review Committee on May 31, 2024
Follow along and stay informed as the City’s departments review Somerset Academy’s application
View the 2012 City Commission meeting when Somerset Gables Academy Principal, Suzette Ruiz, said the school would not expand beyond 260 students.
Connect with us
Biltmore Neighborhood Association, Inc. is a Florida nonprofit corporation and registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (#CH76454). A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free, 1-800-435-7352 (800-HELP-FLA) within the state or visiting www.800helpfla.com. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state.