West Miami, Florida
West Miami is a small yet vibrant city in Miami-Dade County, nestled between larger cities like Hialeah, Miami Lakes, and Coral Gables. Despite its compact size of just three-quarters of a square mile, West Miami is home to over 8,000 residents.
Bordered by Calle Ocho (S.W. 8th Street) to the north and Coral Way (S.W. 24th Street) to the south, this close-knit community has become a unique blend of rich history and modern development. With limited space for expansion, the city has grown primarily through annexation of neighboring areas, enhancing its diversity and infrastructure.
About the Community
West Miami’s development began after World War II, when federal initiatives provided free lots to returning soldiers. These veterans settled in the area, building homes and creating a community that earned the city its nickname, the “Town of Veterans.”
Significant changes occurred between the 1960s and 1980s with the arrival of Cuban refugees. Today, West Miami’s population is predominantly Hispanic, with about 85% of residents of Cuban descent. The city’s rich cultural heritage and strong Latin American roots are evident in its traditions, cuisine, and vibrant community spirit.
West Miami is primarily a residential community known for its peaceful neighborhoods and steadily improving quality of life. Despite its small size, the city has undertaken significant projects to enhance its environment and infrastructure, including sidewalk replacement, tree beautification, and park development.
Aging residents benefit from the city’s Senior Citizens Community Center, a hub for activities, programs, and support services tailored to their needs. Investments continue to be made in improving flooding issues, complying with state and federal requirements, and upgrading recreational amenities for all residents.
West Miami Weather
WEST MIAMI WEATHER
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Vicinity of West Miami
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West Miami Recreation Center, which offers facilities for sports, fitness, and social gatherings. These parks are continuously updated to meet the needs of the growing population, ensuring residents have access to safe and enjoyable green spaces.
To improve mobility for residents, West Miami operates a Jitney Service that provides transportation to areas as far north as the Blue Lagoon. With funding from the People’s Transportation Plan, the city is working to expand these routes further.
In recent years, West Miami has expanded its boundaries through annexation, adding areas to the west (between S.W. 67th Avenue and the Palmetto Expressway) and southward (between S.W. 8th Street and Coral Way). These expansions have increased the city’s population by nearly 3,000 residents, with county services like police and sewer systems now serving these new areas.
West Miami continues to grow and evolve, driven by its commitment to improving the quality of life for all its residents. From beautification projects to infrastructure upgrades, the city is dedicated to maintaining its charm while embracing progress. Its blend of history, cultural heritage, and modern development makes West Miami a unique and thriving community in the heart of Miami-Dade County.