Homestead

The Renaissance of Homestead: Open for Business, Built for the Future

  • January 2026
City of Homestead

A new chapter is unfolding in the City of Homestead—one defined by strategic growth, investment-ready infrastructure, and a renewed focus on economic vitality. Once known primarily for its agricultural roots and proximity to national parks, Homestead is now positioning itself as one of South Florida’s most dynamic places to do business.

At the heart of this renaissance is a clear message: the City of Homestead is open for business.

The City recently adopted its first five-year Strategic Plan, a milestone that provides a roadmap for smart growth, fiscal responsibility, and long-term competitiveness. The plan aligns city leadership, staff, and partners around a shared vision—ensuring that investments made today support the businesses of tomorrow.

“Homestead is no longer planning year to year—we’re planning for generations,” said Mayor Steven D. Losner. “Our Strategic Plan reflects our commitment to sustainable growth, economic opportunity, and a city where businesses can thrive with confidence.”

A key pillar of this momentum is the relaunch of Discover Homestead, a revitalized brand designed to spotlight Downtown Homestead as a walkable, vibrant destination for commerce, culture, and entrepreneurship. From small businesses and restaurants to professional services and creative ventures, Downtown is once again becoming the City’s economic and social heartbeat.

This renewed energy is on full display through the City’s inaugural Discover Homestead Winter Wonderland Experience, running through January 18. The event features live music, pop-up eateries, local market vendors, and the largest outdoor real ice rink in South Florida—drawing thousands of visitors and generating meaningful foot traffic for surrounding businesses.

But Homestead’s transformation extends well beyond seasonal events.

One of the most ambitious projects in the City’s history is the Sport Performance Hub, a $275 million private investment that will transform one of Homestead’s largest parks into a world-class destination. The project includes a soccer stadium, 100-room hotel, elite soccer academy, tennis and pickleball courts, and multipurpose athletic facilities—all delivered at no cost to taxpayers, with long-term benefits to residents and the local economy.

“This is exactly the kind of partnership cities work toward,” said City Manager Zerry Ihekwaba. “It’s private investment aligned with public benefit—job creation, tourism, youth programming, and economic impact—without burdening the community.”

Adding to this momentum, NASCAR National Championship will return to Homestead in November 2026, placing the city on the national stage during Championship Week, with millions of eyes across the United States focused on Homestead.

Further, the designation of the Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB) and adjoining County land as a Space Port by Governor Ron DeSantis is an additional driver to the city’s economic development as new aerospace manufacturing businesses relocate locally.

Underpinning all of this growth is the City’s Readiness Agenda—a comprehensive effort to modernize infrastructure, including water and sewer systems, roadway expansion, general public works, energy services, and utilities. These upgrades ensure Homestead is prepared not just for today’s businesses, but for the industries and innovations of the future.

As Homestead continues its renaissance, the message is clear, as the new City’s tagline: The Future Lives Here.