Lessons from the rebirth of South Miami-Dade after Hurricane Andrew | Opinion
Even today, the number is shocking: 250,000– that is how many residents were left homeless after Hurricane Andrew hit and destroyed the southern part of the county on Aug. 24, 1992, some 32 years ago this week.
It’s fair to say that South Miami-Dade was left in shambles – a community shattered by the overwhelming power of a Category 5 hurricane.
As one of the founding members of what became the Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade (EDC), I was at the heart of the county’s efforts to rebuild our community.
Our story is one of resilience, unity and hope – the same principles that still drive and inspire us in our mission to fuel economic growth and improve the quality of life in our region.
Our beginnings
Shortly after Andrew, we formed the EDC, originally named the Perrine Cutler Ridge Council.
We met with 44 business owners, citizens, and local leaders weekly—often in buildings without electricity—to discuss how to rebuild.
My own business, a grocery store closed for a year due to the disaster, was just one example of the widespread destruction.
Andrew had ravaged the entire area, uprooting even the largest and seemingly most resilient trees. But our vision and determination to rebuild our region remained strong.
Challenges and triumphs
One of the greatest lessons we learned in those early days was the power of unity. Residents from all races and nationalities came together under one roof with a single goal—the recovery of South Dade.
Insurance payouts and federal aid were crucial, enabling us to bring new housing and industries to the area.
The Homestead Air Force Base, once a vibrant military community with hospitals, homes and businesses, was decimated by Andrew. Sadly, the base did not return to its old vibrancy. The military personnel were moved out and simply never returned.
But having served in the Air Force from 1962 to 1970, I have a deep personal connection to what is now the Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB), and its continued operation is a matter of great importance to myself and everyone at the EDC.
Today, HARB is a hub for our nation’s aerospace and defense initiatives, playing a significant role in Florida’s space industry.
On July 1st, 2024, Florida Legislature passed Senate Bill 968, expanding the state’s spaceport territory to include Homestead Air Reserve Base and Tyndall Air Force Base, enhancing Space Florida’s ability to attract new aerospace companies and boost economic growth.
With $2.14 billion in private investment and a 41% increase in aerospace jobs over the past decade, Florida is set to remain a global leader in the space-earth economy. This vision reflects our commitment to advancing capabilities while honoring a base that has risen from the ashes to achieve strategic and economic significance.
The region today
Three decades later, South Miami-Dade thrives, transformed by advanced industries like manufacturing, logistics, and aerospace. What was once a disaster zone is now a dynamic part of Florida, supported by the state’s robust economy and strong infrastructure.
In 2006, we rebranded the EDC and established a more comprehensive council to better serve the evolving needs of our business community.
Today, the EDC is committed to fueling economic growth in our vibrant region by leveraging Florida’s #2 Best State for Business ranking, AAA credit rating, tech-ready workforce, and excellent transportation networks to attract national and international enterprises.
Looking forward
The future of South Miami-Dade is bright. With new technologies and industries settling here, the possibilities are limitless.
Reflecting on the past thirty years, I’m grateful for the dedication and spirit of those who have been part of this journey. Our story is a beacon of hope, showing that from devastation can come strength, growth and a brighter future.
South Miami-Dade is proof of that, and I’m proud to have played a part through the EDC.
Join us in building a prosperous future for South Miami-Dade. Visit our new website, engage with our initiatives and see how you can be part of our next chapter of growth and innovation.
Wilbur B. Bell is a West Perrine community leader. In recognition of his work for the area, Wilbur B. Bell Park was named after him. He has also been recognized by the Miami-Dade Commission for his 54 years of dedication to South Miami-Dade’s economic recovery and improvement.
This story was originally published August 20, 2024 at 7:58 AM.