Coconut Grove Playhouse Collapse Injures Workers, Spurs Fears

A construction accident during demolition at the historic Coconut Grove Playhouse in Miami caused a partial third-floor collapse after a contractor mistakenly removed a load-bearing wall, compromising the roof and exterior walls. Two workers suffered minor injuries but were safely evacuated, and no serious injuries occurred. City officials and engineers determined the building is at significant risk of further collapse, resulting in an immediate halt to demolition and the closure of Main Highway and surrounding streets. Emergency stabilization efforts are underway and expected to take about eight days, but it remains uncertain whether the building can be fully repaired. The Playhouse, vacant since 2006 and on the National Register of Historic Places, is at the center of legal disputes between Miami-Dade County and preservationists over plans to partially demolish and modernize the site while restoring its historic façade. The accident has increased concerns about the preservation and future of this iconic landmark.