MIAMI—Miami is known for its enviable quality of life, but some forward-thinkers are working to enhance that quality with a strong focus on maximizing the value of public spaces. These forward-thinkers understand that the quality, character and distribution of public space has a fundamental impact on the quality of life in urban areas—and that public space can drive investment activity.

A group of experts explored the potential for linear park initiatives in South Florida to have a transformative impact on the metropolitan area—and highlighted the extraordinary success and lessons learned from the High Line in New York—in a panel called “Creating Value: Urban Real Estate and Public Space” at the recent 2015 Real Estate Impact Conference.

Experts on the panel included: Philip Aarons, principal and founding partner at Millennium Partners; Meg Daily, founder of Friend of the Underline; Steve Owens, president of Swire Properties; and Vincent Signorello, president and CEO of Florida East Coast Industries (FECI). Charles C. Bohl, director and Associate Professor of University of Miami's Master of Real Estate Development + Urban (MRED+U) in the School of Architecture, moderated the discussion.