Welcome to Downtown Homestead, we’re happy you’re here! Known for our historic roots unique to South Florida, we’re transforming into a vibrant community where small town charm meets modern amenities. Whether you’re looking for entertainment or history, there’s something here for everyone. From our rich history to our unique local flair, Downtown Homestead is truly one of a kind.
About Our City
Welcome
Homestead's History
Established in 1913, Homestead is known for its historic contribution to the development of South Florida as it served as a major hub for Henry Flagler’s railroad starting in 1903. Today its beautiful natural setting, lush tree lined streets and unique vernacular architecture all serve as a reminder to visitors of the spirit of early South Florida communities. Each generation has made their mark and contributed to the evolution of Homestead. With a population of more than 70,000, this little railroad town has bloomed into a thriving city of diverse cultures and heritage.
Homestead's History
Established in 1913, Homestead is known for its historic contribution to the development of South Florida as it served as a major hub for Henry Flagler’s railroad starting in 1903. Today its beautiful natural setting, lush tree lined streets and unique vernacular architecture all serve as a reminder to visitors of the spirit of early South Florida communities. Each generation has made their mark and contributed to the evolution of Homestead. With a population of more than 70,000, this little railroad town has bloomed into a thriving city of diverse cultures and heritage.
Pioneering Days: A Railroad to the Keys
(1913 – 1929)
Homestead’s story begins in 1898 when South Dade County opened to homesteaders, drawing settlers to the fertile lands of Florida’s southern tip. The area remained isolated until Henry Flagler’s Florida East Coast Railway extended southward in 1904, with engineer William J. Krome charting the path for the Key West Extension. By 1905, construction was underway, attracting many workers, especially from the Bahamas. Their contributions helped establish the community that, in 1913, became the City of Homestead, the second-oldest municipality in Miami-Dade County. The railroad ignited a thriving agricultural economy (tomatoes, beans, tropical fruit), transforming the area into a growing trade and commercial center and establishing the roots of Downtown Homestead
A New Town Grows
(1913 – 1929)
After Incorporation, Homestead quickly emerged as a thriving agricultural town. The downtown became the commercial center, with stores, banks, civic buildings, and homes springing up around the railway depot. As new roads and early motor-truck routes expanded, Homestead became a major supplier of vegetables and tropical produce to Miami and national markets. By the 1920s, the City had firmly established itself as an essential contributor to South Florida’s economy. That momentum was disrupted in 1929 when a powerful hurricane struck the region just as the Great Depression began causing widespread damage and slowing growth across the community.
Post-War Boom and Growth
(1945 – 1992)
Following World War II, Homestead entered a period of major expansion. Downtown saw new construction and modernization, and the establishment of Homestead Air Force Base (1942) brought population growth, jobs, and federal investment. Through the 1950s–1970s, the city added infrastructure, civic facilities, and new residential neighborhoods, while suburban shopping patterns and automobile-centered development began shifting activity outward from the original downtown grid. This era of progress came to a sudden halt in 1992, when Hurricane Andrew, one of the most destructive storms in U.S. history, devastated Homestead, leaving much of the historic downtown severely damaged and accelerating long-term economic decline.
Post - Andrew Recovery and CRA Formation
(1993 – 2015)
After Hurricane Andrew, Homestead faced an unprecedented rebuilding challenge. In 1993, the City created the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) under Florida Statute Chapter 163 after downtown conditions met the formal “slum and blight” criteria triggered by the storm’s severe damage. The CRA’s mission was to restore the urban core, attract private investment, and strengthen the local economy. Over the next two decades, the Agency invested in historic building rehabilitation, small business support, public space upgrades, and streetscape improvements, including the restoration of the Seminole Theatre, the redevelopment of Losner Park, and enhancements throughout the Historic Downtown District (which received National Register designation during this era). These efforts established the foundation for Homestead’s cultural resurgence and long-term revitalization trajectory.
Current Day Downtown Homestead: A Renaissance
(2015 – Present)
Downtown Homestead is now experiencing a new era of investment, activation, and momentum. Major coordinated streetscape and infrastructure upgrades, including electrical undergrounding along Krome Avenue and NW 2nd Street, enhanced sidewalks, and landscaping to support outdoor dining, are underway to modernize utilities, improve resiliency, and elevate the pedestrian experience. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is now operational, with two BRT stations located in Homestead, making it easier than ever for residents, workers, and visitors to reach Downtown conveniently and reliably.
In addition, the CRA has secured an EPA Brownfields Cleanup Grant to remediate contamination within the CRA district, unlocking previously constrained parcels and preparing sites for future reinvestment. Several new businesses are preparing to open in the Downtown core, and the CRA continues to strengthen partnerships with the South Dade Chamber of Commerce and the Miami-Dade Economic Development Council to support business attraction and long-term private investment.
Homestead continues to balance preservation with progress — honoring its legacy while building a more vibrant, resilient, and economically active city center for years to come. The future lives here!
Exciting Times Ahead
We are building bright tomorrows in Downtown Homestead, including multiple developments in the works within the transportation, residential and retail sectors. From our Losner Park Expansion to the development of our Rapid Transit System, excitement is right around the corner.
Learn More
Let's Chat!
Have a question for us? We’re here to help!
(305) 224-4480
jbeck@homesteadfl.gov
lbuell@homesteadfl.gov
Let's Chat!
Have a question for us? We’re here to help!
(305) 224-4480
jbeck@homesteadfl.gov
lbuell@homesteadfl.gov
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