Carol City, Florida
Carol City, Florida, a suburb of the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metro area, lies in the north-central section of Miami-Dade County. The picturesque community, originally called “Coral City”, changed its name at the last minute as a result of legal pressure from the city of Coral Gables. Carol City, at the time of the 2000 Census, was a census-designated place (CDP) with a population of nearly 60,000 residents.
The 21st century in Miami-Dade County brought about major changes, as several unincorporated places within the county voted to incorporate. In 2003, Carol City, along with portions of several additional CDP’s, agreed to incorporate as the city of Miami Gardens. The newly formed city of Miami Gardens derives its name from Miami Gardens Drive, a major roadway that runs through the area. Incorporated on May 13, 2003, Miami Gardens is Miami-Dade County’s 33rd city. Estimates in 2005 show the population at approximately 105,000 residents, making it the third most populous city in Miami-Dade County. The city proper encompasses nearly twenty square miles.
Miami Gardens, Florida nestles between the cities of Fort Lauderdale and Miami, and lies in close proximity to Hialeah, population 226,419. Residents and business professionals enjoy convenient access to several busy highways. These include Interstate 95, the Florida Turnpike, US-441 and the Palmetto Expressway, also known as SR-826. Interstate-95 runs north and south through FL, while the Palmetto Expressway serves as the area’s major shopping district for furniture trade. Miami Gardens, FL also has reliable rail access through the Florida East Coast Railway and the South Florida Tri-Rail System. Such a centralized location, with numerous transportation options and a business-friendly atmosphere, make Miami Gardens an attractive location for new and expanding companies.
The Miami-Dade County Public School District serves Miami Gardens and the former CDP of Carol City. There are numerous public and private schools at the primary level and three public high schools available to local students. Florida Memorial University and St. Thomas University serve the higher education needs of the immediate Miami Gardens area. Additional facilities for post-secondary education include the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale,Barry University and Nova Southeastern University.
The Florida Marlins and Miami Dolphins both call the Dolphin Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL home. The renowned Dolphin Stadium also plays host to the annual Orange Bowl and community celebrations such as Jazz in the Gardens. Jazz in the Gardens is the year’s largest festival celebrating jazz music and food. The Calder Race Course also calls Miami Gardens its home.
Additionally, visitors to the area have access to the lovely Atlantic Ocean beaches and all the attractions located in surrounding areas. Other notable attractions in Miami-Dade County include Art Deco Historic District, Biscayne National Park, Coral Castle, Everglades National Park, Homestead-Miami Speedway, Miami Metrozoo, Miami Seaquarium and the stunning Venetian Pool.
Carol City, Florida, once a census-designated place in Miami-Dade County, transitioned smoothly into the lovely city of Miami Gardens. Despite its position as a young city, Miami Gardens, Florida offers vibrant communities, with a unique diversity.
