North Miami Beach, FL

A Community That Shines in Beauty, Innovation, and Growth Potential

Celebrating 100 Years of Community, Expansion, and Possibility

 

Now in its centennial year following its February milestone, North Miami Beach is entering a new chapter. What began as Fulford-by-the-Sea has grown into one of the most culturally dynamic and strategically positioned communities in Miami-Dade County. Today, city leadership is not only reflecting on that journey but also setting a clear vision for what comes next.

“We’re going to highlight every piece of North Miami Beach and really show where we’ve come from,” says Mayor Michael Joseph. “In the next 100 years, we’re going to do even better.”

“The centennial is more than a celebration; it’s a moment of reflection and direction,” adds Commissioner Lynn Su. “One hundred years ago, we began as Fulford-by-the-Sea. Now we have the responsibility to shape the next century with intention.”

That intention is grounded in honoring the past while building a stronger, more unified future. From historic landmarks like the Fulford-by-the-Sea Monument to deeply rooted neighborhoods such as Washington Park, the city is placing equal emphasis on its heritage and the people who have shaped it.

Vice Mayor Fortuna Smukler highlights the importance of preserving those stories. “Through the North Miami Beach Library, there was a documentary done on Washington Park, the first Black community in our city. Not only did I learn a lot about our city, but so did others in the audience,” Smukler reflects.

Community connection remains central to that vision. Commissioner Daniela Jean points to neighborhood-focused initiatives that bring residents together. “We will be having block parties in different neighborhoods to really connect with the community. Each area has its own identity and cultural background, and this is an opportunity to celebrate that,” Jean explains.

The City is also home to The Ancient Spanish Monastery, which is a North Miami Beach local treasure. Originally built in 1133 in Segovia, Spain, it is the oldest European-built structure in the Western Hemisphere.

Because of its unique architecture and well-kept gardens, the Ancient Spanish Monastery also serves as a place for worship and is recognized as one of North Miami Beach’s and Miami-Dade’s most sought-after venues. It’s a popular destination site for travelers, day trips, family gatherings, weddings, special events, commercial photography, and films. The Ancient Spanish Monastery was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

According to Commissioner McKenzie Fleurimond, ” North Miami Beach plays a significant role in the arts and culture landscape. The Ancient Spanish Monastery is a world-renowned landmark that has hosted major events and served as a gathering place for locals looking to celebrate important milestones.”

From Pass-Through to Prime Destination

For decades, North Miami Beach was often seen as a pass-through city. Today, that narrative is rapidly changing. “North Miami Beach is central to everything,” Mayor Joseph points out. “We’re 15 minutes from Miami International Airport, 15 minutes from Fort Lauderdale, and 10 minutes from the beach. At the same time, home prices are still more accessible than surrounding areas.”

This strategic location is one of the city’s greatest assets. Commissioner Phyllis Smith reinforces its importance with a real estate perspective shaped by decades of experience. “Location, location, location is the main thing,” Smith emphasizes. “We are between everything and everybody in North Dade. It’s the best location, and we’re the last prime investment opportunity in the center of it all.”

Development is now catching up with that reality. Mixed-use projects, new commercial investments, and increased interest from both national brands and local entrepreneurs are reshaping the city’s landscape.

“We’ve had a lot of mixed-use developments coming up,” Mayor Joseph shares. “We’ve got Jefferson Plaza, our first Chick-fil-A, and we’re likely getting a Tesla dealership. At the same time, we’re attracting small businesses because it’s more affordable, and that brings a different type of traffic to the city.”

Smith notes that redevelopment rather than expansion is the path forward. “There isn’t a lot of land,” Smith explains. “You must take old property and either tear it down or reconstruct. Mixed-use is the future because people want to live, work, and play without spending hours in traffic.”

Su echoes this approach, emphasizing thoughtful growth. “Corridors like West Dixie are where density belongs,” Su notes. “Concentrating mixed-use development protects established neighborhoods while activating underutilized areas.”

A Cultural Mosaic Driving Growth

One of North Miami Beach’s most distinctive qualities is its cultural diversity, something leaders view as both a strength and an economic driver.

“We have an international culinary scene that reflects the diversity of our residents,” Jean says. “From kosher restaurants to Asian markets, Caribbean cuisine, Mediterranean food, you name it, you can find it here.”

“North Miami Beach is home to some of the most recognized eateries in South Florida. Lettuce and Tomato restaurant is a local favorite with dishes inspired by Asian, Peruvian, and American influences,” Commissioner McKenzie notes.

Jean sees an opportunity to build on that foundation. “We would love to see more dine-in and high-end restaurants that become staples for families and visitors,” she adds.

Su believes culture plays a central role in shaping the city’s identity and economy. “Culture is both economic development and civic glue,” Su explains. “I would like to see North Miami Beach continue evolving as the Asian hub of Miami-Dade County. That identity attracts visitors and supports small businesses.”

The city’s multicultural fabric is also reflected in its programming. Through its Multi-Cultural Committee, North Miami Beach hosts events celebrating Black History Month, Haitian Heritage Month, Juneteenth, Hispanic Heritage Month, and more.

Vice Mayor Smukler underscores the importance of inclusivity. “North Miami Beach is a city that is multicultural, from our commission to our employees to our residents,” Smukler notes.

The city’s multicultural fabric is also reflected in its programming. Through its Multi-Cultural Committee, North Miami Beach hosts events celebrating Black History Month, Haitian Heritage Month, Asian Night Markets, a July 4^th American History Celebration, Hispanic Heritage Month, Jewish – American History Month, Women’s History Month, and more.

Infrastructure, Sustainability, and Smart Growth

As development accelerates, infrastructure remains a top priority. “We’re heavily focused on moving from septic to sewer,” Mayor Joseph explains. “That’s the future of sustainability and environmental responsibility.”

This transition is part of a broader effort to modernize systems and prepare for long-term growth. The city is also updating its comprehensive plan to guide development over the next several decades.

Su highlights the importance of resilience in infrastructure planning. “Stormwater capacity, elevation standards, heat mitigation, and tree canopy expansion directly protect homes and businesses,” Su notes. “Infrastructure is not abstract; it is fundamental to trust.”

North Miami Beach’s water system is another critical asset. “We operate one of the largest water plants in the region,” Su adds. “Ensuring safe drinking water and protecting residents from emerging contaminants is a public health priority.”

Mayor Michael Joseph

Vice Mayor Fortuna Smukler

Smith emphasizes the importance of local control. “We own our water plant, and that infrastructure is very significant for our city and future generations,” Smith stresses.

At the same time, the city is addressing challenges such as traffic congestion and rising development costs. “Costs have continuously gone up, and government processes can be slow,” Mayor Joseph acknowledges. “We’re working to be more nimble, so projects don’t fall behind.”

Jean points to traffic as a growing concern. “With so many developments coming online, traffic and speed mitigation are key priorities over the next five years,” she notes.

Investing in Community and Quality of Life

While infrastructure remains a priority, the city is also focused on enhancing the quality of life through significant investments in community amenities.

One of the most anticipated projects is the long-awaited Washington Park Community Center. “This project has been promised for over 40 years, and now it’s finally coming to fruition,” Mayor Joseph shares. “We’re investing close to $30 million to make it happen.” Jean shares the excitement. “We’re closer than we’ve ever been to seeing that project come to life,” she says.

Additional investments include park upgrades, recreational programming, and potential new facilities such as a senior center. “We need partnerships to make these things happen,” Smith explains. “Municipalities don’t have the same resources they used to, so collaboration is key.”

Public spaces are seen as essential to community connection. “Community spaces are where neighbors connect and where civic identity becomes real,” Su reflects.

The North Miami Beach Discovery Library is one such treasured public space, and is more than a library—it is a cornerstone of community life. Serving residents of all ages and recently recognized with the state’s Age-Friendly Award, it has earned acclaim at the local, state, and national levels for its forward-thinking programs.

From immigration services and media labs to professional development, arts, crafts, athletics, and multicultural programming, the library fosters connection, learning, and inclusion—bringing together a rich tapestry of cultures and generations under one roof in North Miami Beach.

The city is also very proud of its active and engaged Chamber of Commerce, which has been a valued civic institution that helps connect the community through civic and seasonal events, as well as support businesses established in the city while attracting future ones.

Balancing Growth with Identity

With growth comes the challenge of maintaining affordability and community character. “Market forces often favor high-end development, but our responsibility is long-term stability,” Su notes. “We need housing options for working families, young professionals, and seniors.”

Smith highlights the financial realities cities face. “We either have to bring in new development, raise taxes, or reduce services,” she explains. “That’s the balance we’re constantly managing.”

At the same time, transparency and public engagement remain priorities. “We’re committed to being more transparent and keeping residents informed,” Mayor Joseph says. “Public meetings and updates are key to that.”

Vice Mayor Smukler adds that communication is multifaceted. “We use social media, public notices, and open meetings to keep residents engaged and informed,” she explains.

A Vision for the Next Century

Looking ahead, North Miami Beach’s leadership shares a common vision rooted in unity, opportunity, and resilience. “By 2040 or 2050, I want North Miami Beach to be known as a city that proves diversity and unity are not opposites,” Su says. “We can celebrate our heritage while embracing a shared civic identity.”

“What will be key for many municipalities moving forward is partnerships with the private sector. There’s a wave of businesses moving from the West Coast and throughout the country to South Florida. We must position North Miami Beach to attract industries that create more jobs and opportunities for locals. This means assisting in preparing our workforce to meet the specific demands of the jobs that will be created,” Commissioner McKenzie concludes.

For Mayor Joseph, the focus is on continuous improvement. “Every day, the goal is to make North Miami Beach better than it was the day before,” he notes. Jean sees the city as a place of discovery and belonging. “It’s a city where you can explore and find hidden gems,” she adds.

Smith remains confident in what lies ahead. “This is a city that is ready to grow,” she says. “We’re going to be on the map, and it’s going to be exciting.” As North Miami Beach enters its second century, one message stands above all. “North Miami Beach is open for business,” Mayor Joseph concludes.

AT A GLANCE

Who: North Miami Beach, Florida

What: A diverse, centrally located community that blends small-town feel with big-city access.

Where: Northeastern Miami-Dade County, Florida, between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, just a few minutes from the Atlantic coast.

Website: www.citynmb.com