Miami Residents Push Back Against Ken Griffin's Proposed Helipad

Miami Beach residents are opposing a plan by billionaire Ken Griffin to build a private helipad at a marina he is developing for his yachts, citing potential noise disturbances.

Griffin, the founder of Citadel, is seeking approval to construct the helipad at a marina near the Port of Miami, which he is developing to accommodate his large yachts. The proposed helipad would serve his Airbus H160 helicopter, a model reportedly costing $14 million and up.

Leaders from eight luxury condominium buildings along Biscayne Bay have formally objected to the proposal. In a joint email to Miami Beach officials, they expressed concerns that helicopter traffic would negatively impact residents' quality of life.

"He's saying that his helicopter is the quietest model, that noise won't be an issue for us," John Stimmel, president of the 42-story Icon condominium, told Bloomberg News. "I asked ChatGPT if landing helicopters that close will be noisy, and guess what? It will be noisy."

According to a presentation prepared for the city, a consultant working for Griffin stated that noise from a passing helicopter would be no louder on nearby condo balconies than "normal conversation between two people." A spokesperson for the marina project added that any sound impact would be "negligible" and less disruptive than cruise ship horns.

The helipad plan was scheduled to be reviewed by Miami Beach's land-use committee. The proposal follows last year's unanimous approval from the Miami Beach planning board for the private marina itself.

That marina project, currently under construction, is designed to berth up to nine vessels and includes a two-story building for Griffin's personal use, featuring a pool, art gallery, and office space. A separate facility for yacht crews will also include a gym and pool.

During the marina's approval process last year, Griffin's request to host special events for up to 300 people also drew scrutiny. The planning board ultimately approved the project with conditions, including restrictions on traffic and amplified sound, and requirements for certain gatherings to receive authorization from the U.S. Coast Guard base.

Citadel has stated that the marina project reflects Griffin's "long-term commitment to Miami."

Griffin has made significant investments in Miami, including a $2.5 billion headquarters for Citadel. The construction of this building was recently paused after a drill rig collapse injured four people and damaged vehicles.