South Dade: Miami Real Estate's Next Big Thing? Interview With Peter England, Chief Strategy Officer - Episode 132
/Hey everyone, Hal Feldman, your favorite Miami real estate agent, is back with another insightful blog post! I recently had the pleasure of hosting Peter England, CEO of the Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade (EDC), on the MiamiHal Real Estate Show. Peter shared a wealth of knowledge about the exciting developments in South Dade and how they impact the Miami real estate market.
Defining South Dade
To begin, let's define what constitutes South Dade. In the interview, Peter England, clarifies that South Dade includes everything south of Kendall Drive, extending to the Florida Keys. This encompasses a vibrant mix of communities, from the bustling suburbs of Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay to the agricultural landscapes of Homestead, Redland and Florida City. With its unique blend of urban and rural living, South Dade offers a diverse range of real estate options for those seeking a slice of paradise in Miami.
The EDC: A Driving Force in South Dade's Economy
For those unfamiliar, the EDC was established over 30 years ago in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew. Their mission? To revitalize South Dade's economy through job creation and retention. They work tirelessly with local communities, businesses, and organizations to foster economic growth and stability.
South Dade: A Magnet for High-Paying Jobs
Peter emphasized that the EDC's focus extends beyond simply creating jobs; they are committed to attracting high-paying, resilient jobs, particularly in the manufacturing sector. This strategic approach stems from the understanding that such jobs contribute to a more stable and prosperous community.
A prime example of this commitment is the development of a South Dade Aerospace Zone near Homestead Air Reserve Base. This initiative aims to harness the skills and training of the 1,800 reservists at the base, creating a hub for aerospace technology and manufacturing, further strengthening South Dade's economic base.
Did you know that Florida's population grew by over a quarter of a million people last year? That's more than any other state in the US! And here's another interesting tidbit: the gross buying income of families moving into Miami-Dade County is four times that of the families leaving. This influx of wealth and skilled professionals is a driving force behind the demand for housing in South Dade.
The Importance of "Live, Work, Play" Communities
Peter also addressed a key concern for many South Dade residents: traffic congestion. He discussed the EDC's commitment to fostering "live, work, play" communities where residents can enjoy a balanced lifestyle without enduring long commutes. This focus on integrated communities is crucial for anyone considering buying or renting real estate in South Dade.
"The way we solve traffic is with transit, period, full stop." That's a quote from our esteemed Mayor highlighting the importance of efficient transportation in addressing traffic concerns. The upcoming Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, a $300 million project slated to be operational by the beginning of 2025, is a testament to this commitment.
The EDC: A Champion for the Community
Peter shared a compelling example of the EDC's advocacy for the community. He recounted how the EDC successfully rallied residents and businesses to oppose a Florida Turnpike flyover project that would have had detrimental effects on Florida City. This victory underscores the EDC's dedication to ensuring that development projects align with the community's best interests.
Collaboration: The Key to Future Success
Looking ahead, Peter stressed the importance of continued collaboration between the EDC, local communities, businesses, and organizations. This collaborative approach ensures South Dade's sustainable economic growth and benefits all stakeholders.
"You guys down south are really, really lucky...because you talk to each other," remarked Mayor Bovo of Hialeah, praising the unique regional cooperation in South Dade. This collaborative spirit fosters a conducive environment for sustainable growth and benefits the real estate market by promoting stability and long-term planning.
Working with a Knowledgeable Miami Real Estate Agent
Understanding the nuances of these economic developments and their impact on the real estate market requires local expertise. As a Miami real estate agent deeply involved in the community, I can provide valuable insights and guidance to South Dade buyers, sellers, and renters.
For a Deeper Dive, Watch the Full Interview!
I encourage you to watch the complete interview with Peter England on my website for a more in-depth understanding of the exciting developments in South Dade and their implications for Miami real estate.
Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or rent in Miami, I'm here to help you navigate the market and achieve your real estate goals. Contact me today for a consultation!
Until next time, have a great week in real estate!
Hal Feldman, MiamiHal
Your Miami Real Estate Agent