Russell Galbut Withdraws Three Miami Beach Live Local Act Projects

Miami-based developer Russell Galbut has withdrawn applications for three significant projects in Miami Beach, which aimed to leverage Florida's Live Local Act. The canceled proposals include a 43-story tower at 1575 Alton Road, a 28-story building at 740 Alton Road, and another 28-story project at 880 71st Street, the latter in partnership with Lefferts. These projects, which incorporated workforce housing components, faced years of strong opposition from the City of Miami Beach and its residents.

Galbut, who leads GFO Investments and Crescent Heights, communicated his decision via email, emphasizing a commitment to collaboration rather than a retreat from the need for housing. The Live Local Act, passed in 2023 and amended in 2025, grants density and height bonuses for developments dedicating at least 40% of units to workforce housing. Miami Beach officials have actively resisted the law, expressing concerns about its potential to alter the city's historic character and tourism economy.

Despite these withdrawals, Galbut has secured approvals for other Live Local Act projects in Miami Beach, including a 16-story tower at 663 Alton Road and a 15-story building at 1826 Collins Avenue. The city continues to explore legal challenges to the Live Local Act. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between state-level housing mandates and local land-use control.