Amazon’s New Facility, South Dade Aerospace Zone, and $1 Billion Mall
Redevelopment Fueling Growth
South Miami-Dade is on the cusp of an economic renaissance, and the buzz was palpable at the recent annual meeting of the Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade (EDC). This vibrant gathering of community leaders, business owners, and government officials spotlighted a series of transformative projects set to enhance the quality of life for everyone in the region.
One of the evening's showstoppers was the $1.5 billion redevelopment of the 80-acre Southland Mall. This colossal project aims to transform the mall into the beating heart of South Miami-Dade, with a mix of residential and retail spaces that promise to redefine local living. Plus, it will be a key hub in the new busway transit system, making it easier than ever to navigate the area.
Tim Meerbott, Mayor of Cutler Bay, passionately spoke about the project’s impact. "In these dynamic times, our focus on sustainable and inclusive development is essential. This project is more than just construction; it's about creating community hubs that enhance living standards for all our residents," he said, capturing the essence of the ambitious redevelopment.
But that’s not all! The meeting also delved into the South Dade Aerospace Zone (SDAZ), a game-changing initiative for the region’s aerospace industry. On April 12, the EDC, along with Florida International University and the South Florida Defense Alliance, hosted a tour of the area to show private business owners the immense potential for aerospace development. With its designation as a "Spaceport Territory" starting July 1, 2024, SDAZ is poised to attract significant investment and create a surge of new jobs in the aerospace sector.
Peter England, the EDC's Chief Strategy Officer, highlighted the importance of such developments in light of rising living costs. "The cost of living in this county has soared. Providing well-paying jobs through projects like these is critical for enabling residents to afford to stay in our community," he stressed.
And let’s not forget the upcoming Amazon facility, which was another highlight of the evening. Set to open later this year, this massive facility is expected to become one of the largest employers in the region, offering a plethora of job opportunities and further fueling South Miami-Dade’s economic engine