MIAMI LEADER:
Kerry McLaney is a Miami girl born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. She is an active member of South Florida’s cultural scene with 20 years experience in the photography, art and design industry. 305 Creative Group works and consults with companies and artists in designing brand identities and experiences.

WHY MIAMI?
It’s paradise.

WHAT IS THE MOST PRESSING ISSUE TO SOLVE ON YOUR LIST? WHY?
For me, transportation. We struggle with major traffic issues, especially during rush hour, throughout the greater Miami metro area. It can take hours to get from one end to another.

HOW CAN WE SOLVE IT?
I would like to see above-ground public transportation expanded into Edgewater, Wynwood, Design District and Miami Beach. These areas have been bringing in dense crowds and residents for many years, yet, we haven’t found an efficient way to get around except with private transportation, car-sharing programs, and on-demand car services. Cabs are disgusting and usually require cash. The bus system is a risk due to extreme humid, hot weather which can, at any point, turn into a mini hurricane. The free trolley is great, but time consuming. Wish they would at least have free Wi-Fi. The Bay Link project (connecting Miami Beach to mainland), is a giant step forward. I’ve been keeping my eye on that. Also, The Underline is something I’ve been watching. Their vision is to transform the underutilized land below Miami’s MetroRail, from the Miami River to Dadeland South Station, into a 10-mile iconic linear park, world-class urban trail and living art destination. Glad to see they are receiving funding from various sectors. The transportation system seems so antiquated compared to the rest of first-world nations. However, I am glad to see bicycle-friendly roads becoming more of a presence in the Greater Miami area.