Developer plans major renovation for historic South Beach block

A strip of seven burned-out South Beach buildings could soon become a 300-room boutique hotel complex if the city approves a developer’s plans Tuesday, according to the Miami Herald. Last April, New York-based developer Chetrit Group purchased the historic buildings, which are located between Washington and Park avenues and 20th and 21st streets, and plans to partially demolish and renovate the properties. The complex could be ready to open as soon as 2014 if the plans are approved, accoridng to Chetrit partner Ari Pearl. [Maimi Herald] – Christopher Cameron