Little Havana (March 21, 2015)

On March 21, 2015 we first visited Little Havana to speak with Jose Fernandez and Mauricio Villasoso. Mr. Villasoso gave the class a brief view on little Havana history and its culture that has slowly deteriorated over the years. Little Havana is a district that expands about three miles west of downtown Miami. The area is home to an estimated 50,000 residents the majority of those residents are strong and proud Hispanic families who have lived there for decades. According to Jose Fernandez the area contains some of the oldest and most historic buildings in Miami such as of classic bungalow architecture. These historic buildings are what really define Little Havana strong characteristics that local residents so proudly speak of when they speak about Little Havana.

 

The community has always been surrounded by hard working Latin Americans looking for the American dream. But unfortunately over the years the community was weakened by neglect, crime, drugs, and decay. Mauricio explained that due to the weak preservation many Historical sites that once stand strong have been demolished across the Little Havana area. He also elaborated that much of the neighborhood's housing stock is owned by absentee landlords with little interest in rehabilitating aging properties.

 

 The need for redevelopment is crucial but not all residents are willing to embrace the change. The city is currently in a process of changing the zoning for the Little Havana area. According to many local figures in the area such as Jose Fernandez the zoning change will encouraged high-density and large-scale development rather than a more sensitive approach. According to the Commissioner the zoning change would allow buildings up to five stories with limited commercial shops on the ground floor. The zoning change for new development has many residents in fear of gentrification. Little Havana has a long battle ahead of it for better redevelopment. Jose Fernandez and Mauricio Villasoso feel the best way to improve the area is to educate more people about Little Havana history and its bright future ahead.