From Coastline to Skyline

A Remarkable Transformation with a Clear Vision

Dania Beach is located along Florida’s southeastern coast, a city undergoing a remarkable transformation. With its picturesque shoreline, rich cultural heritage, and advantageous location near major economic hubs, Dania Beach is rapidly emerging as one of South Florida’s most desirable places to live, work, and visit.

Under the leadership of Mayor Joyce L. Davis, the city has embarked on an ambitious journey with Vision 2036, its first-ever strategic plan in 116 years. This long-term roadmap outlines key priorities in economic development, housing expansion, infrastructure improvements, sustainability initiatives, and enhanced community engagement. As Dania Beach continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to thoughtful growth—embracing progress and innovation while staying true to the values that make it a strong and connected community.

United in Strength and Resilience

“Dania Beach is truly the crown jewel of American coastal cities,” says Mayor Joyce L. Davis. “It is the people of Dania Beach that make it so special. Our unique sense of family and community brings us together through tough times, be it the pandemic, storms, or flooding.”

The city’s strong community spirit is evident in how residents, businesses, and local organizations collaborate to support one another. Dania Beach has demonstrated resilience during challenging times through food drives, charitable events, and community outreach programs. Churches, small businesses, and large institutions like Dania Pointe have played vital roles in fostering a sense of unity. The city actively supports initiatives strengthening social bonds, ensuring every resident feels valued and heard.

Beyond its community-driven initiatives, Dania Beach has invested an unprecedented amount in infrastructure, including the Southeast Drainage Project, a $35 million initiative to improve flood mitigation and protect the city from future storms. Public safety remains a top priority, with investments in cutting-edge License Plate Readers (LPRs) and Highwater Vehicles. In five years, we will be committed to a total of 29 BSO law enforcement officers and firefighters/paramedics as part of our extraordinary commitment to public safety.

Gateway for Business and Tourism

Dania Beach boasts one of the most natural and unspoiled coastlines in South Florida. Mayor Joyce L. Davis, who moved to the city for its scenic beauty, emphasizes the importance of preserving its beachfront: “We have one of the most natural beaches left in South Florida, and we are investing in making it a one-of-a-kind destination with public art, recreational activities, and environmental conservation efforts.” The city’s commitment to maintaining its pristine coastline is a testament to its dedication to residents and visitors seeking a tranquil yet vibrant seaside experience.

Dania Beach’s prime location, adjacent to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades, positions it as a gateway for commerce and tourism. Its accessibility by air, sea, and major highways has made it a magnet for business investment and economic development. The city’s strategic plan aims to harness this potential by fostering industries that align with its growth vision. “We are uniquely located with a lot of activity, and it’s truly the most exciting time for Dania Beach,” says Mayor Joyce L. Davis. “We are focusing on industries that complement our strengths and position us as a leader in economic development.”

The city has identified key industries that fit its growth model, including marine services, technology, aviation, aerospace, financial services, life sciences, and manufacturing. Spirit Airlines’ headquarters has cemented Dania Beach’s status as an aviation hub, attracting complementary businesses and talent. In addition, new developments, such as Aileron, have leveraged their proximity to the airport, reflecting the city’s growing influence in the aviation sector. The alignment of these industries will fuel job creation, innovation, and long-term economic stability.

Strengthening the Workforce

Dania Beach is dedicated to creating a business-friendly environment that nurtures entrepreneurship and attracts diverse industries. The city collaborates with the Chamber of Commerce to foster networking opportunities and business growth. An annual allocation of $40,000 has been dedicated to supporting small businesses and enhancing economic resilience.

“Our Chamber of Commerce is vital to our city,” says Mayor Joyce L. Davis. “It provides a platform for businesses to network, collaborate, and succeed. We want to ensure that both long-standing businesses and new startups have the resources and support they need to succeed.”

With financial support, Dania Beach has launched programs designed to empower entrepreneurs. The Dania Beach Business Academy offers free online webinars, mentorship opportunities, and business development resources. Additionally, partnerships with organizations such as SCORE, Florida International University’s Applied Research Center, and Habitat for Humanity of Broward provide specialized training and consulting services.

To further enhance business attraction, the city has streamlined its permitting process, reducing bureaucratic barriers and making it easier for new enterprises to set up operations. Workforce training initiatives, in collaboration with CareerSource Broward, are being developed to equip residents with the skills required to meet the evolving demands of the job market, ensuring a sustainable and competitive workforce.

Expanding Housing Initiatives

Rapid economic growth comes with an increased demand for housing. Dania Beach has proactively addressed this challenge by expanding affordable and workforce housing options. Recognized as a leader in housing development, the city has spearheaded significant projects such as Saratoga Crossings and City Place in collaboration with Pacific Atlantica, Broward County, and the United Way of Broward County.

“We want to ensure that Dania Beach is a place where people can live, work, and thrive,” says Mayor Joyce L. Davis. “That means providing diverse housing options, including workforce housing for teachers, firefighters, and essential workers.”

The South Florida Community Land Trust is acquiring and developing mid-rise, multifamily, low-income housing to accommodate residents in need. To promote sustainable urban planning, zoning modifications have been implemented to encourage mixed-use developments, seamlessly integrating residential, commercial, and retail spaces to create vibrant, walkable communities.

Arts, Music, and Entertainment

Dania Beach is making history by prioritizing public spaces, creativity, and culture. In 2021, the city adopted its first-ever Arts in Public Places Plan and developed the first Arts Park in its 120-year history. With continued investments, including a $21 million transformation of C.W. Thomas Park, currently under construction, Dania Beach is proving its commitment to enhancing community spaces and ensuring accessibility for all.

“We want to create a city that embraces art, culture, and recreation as core parts of our identity,” says Mayor Joyce L. Davis. “These investments make Dania Beach a more vibrant, connected, and engaging place for everyone.”

Cultural programming and community events are key in uniting residents and attracting visitors. The city has become a hub for arts, music, and entertainment, providing spaces where people can gather, celebrate, and support local businesses. Events like Ignite Broward and Dania After Dark bring themed festivities featuring local artists and musicians, while the Taste of Dania Beach showcases the city’s diverse culinary scene. These experiences reinforce a strong sense of community, fostering engagement and economic growth while highlighting the unique character of Dania Beach.

One of the city’s most beloved traditions, the Vintage Bike Show, brings motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors together at Frost Park, drawing thousands of attendees who appreciate the craftsmanship and history of vintage motorcycles. This event has become a landmark gathering highlighting Dania Beach’s ability to host large-scale events while maintaining a close-knit, community-driven spirit. Meanwhile, the city’s annual Light Up Dania Beach event is a family favorite, uniting the community in a grand holiday celebration that welcomes people of all backgrounds.

Community-Driven Sustainability

Dania Beach’s commitment to environmental sustainability is also reflected in city-wide initiatives like Keep Dania Beach Pristine, a collaborative effort that engages residents, businesses, and schools in environmental stewardship. The highly anticipated annual Earth Day beach cleanup encourages citizens of all ages to take an active role in protecting the city’s coastline, reinforcing a culture of environmental responsibility. With support from the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, volunteers weigh and document collected waste, raising awareness about conservation while promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.

In addition to environmental initiatives, Dania Beach fosters a strong sense of civic engagement through youth mentorship programs, town hall meetings, and partnerships with local schools. These programs help nurture the next generation of community leaders while strengthening the bonds between residents and city officials. By encouraging participation in local government and community events, Dania Beach ensures its residents have a voice in shaping the city’s future.

A Future Built on Progress

Dania Beach is evolving with a clear vision—one that prioritizes safety, economic growth, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. Mayor Joyce L. Davis and the city commission are committed to ensuring every investment strengthens Dania Beach’s foundation for future generations.

“As a city, we are not just growing—we are evolving with purpose,” says Mayor Joyce L. Davis. “Every step we take is about strengthening our community, preserving what makes Dania Beach special, and building a future that reflects our values. We are creating something lasting, meaningful, and something that future generations will be proud to call home.”

From coastline to skyline, Dania Beach is on a transformative journey—one that celebrates its rich history while embracing a future of progress, unity, and innovation.

At A Glance:

Who: Dania Beach, Florida
What: A vibrant coastal city in South Florida, blending economic growth, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability while emerging as a hub for business, tourism, and community-driven innovation.
Where: Located along Florida’s southeastern coast, adjacent to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades.
Website: www.daniabeachfl.gov