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This past February 16th the South Dade Chamber of Commerce hosted the State of South Dade, one of the chamber’s premier events. South Dade does deserve its own day. If the sandy beaches and shiny towers of the beach and downtown Miami are the lights that attract everyone, South Dade is the heartbeat of our county. I don’t want to have a discussion on the physiology of our county but consider: South Dade has 25% of the county’s population; it has the largest school district in the MDCPS system; it yis arguably the housing center for the county’s workforce; and is certainly Miami Dade County’s bread basket. Nervous system perhaps? Whatever the best comparison might be, South Dade is a critical component of our county.
Municipal and county leaders shared updates of the exciting projects and improvements that are veritably flowing through South Dade. From Pinecrest to Florida City – commercial projects, retail and housing projects, as well as infrastructure development. From Kendall down Old Cutler and US1 out west to the Redlands, investment and interest are following each other identifying need and opportunity. With a population base like this, why wouldn’t they? South Dade has a labor force, and a consumer base – two important factors that every service industry professional loves to see. If you speak to retail leasing agents, they will confirm business is brisk. The post-covid rebound is strong and real and sustainable.
The diversity of cultures and people in South Dade is matched by the region’s economic diversity. A strong entrepreneurial spirit resonates throughout this area with over 20,000 businesses, many having less than 20 employees. Professional services, restaurants, skilled labor, construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, and of course agriculture. Agriculture is the signature industry of South Dade producing consumable produce like squash and tomatoes, tropical fruits and decorative plants that are sold throughout the country, Canada, and the Caribbean. “Made in South Dade” or “Grown in South Dade” if it were a label would be instantly recognizable in many parts of the country.
Tourism in South Dade is also extremely important. Visiting working farms cultural centers like the Moss Cultural Arts Center and Seminole Theatre, nature gardens like Fairchild Tropical Gardens or Pinecrest Gardens, Rodeos, NASCAR, two national parks and almost countless number of municipal and county parks. There are a growing number of markets all along Krome Avenue and US-1 and of course the wedding venues that have only grown in popularity – so much so that Miami-Dade County (read-South Dade) is the destination wedding capital of the US during the winter.
And all of this is within about 30-minutes of anywhere you may be in Miam-Dade County. Different scenery, fresh food, national parks, outdoor venues, and nature. A place where your business can be close to where your employees may already have their home, an established “work-live-play” situation just waiting for you to stop by and take a peek. I’m looking forward to State of South Dade 2024 and hope to see you there!
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