New Condo in Little Havana Honors Salsa Legend Celia Cruz

By: Ismael Rodriguez

Little Havana, over the years, has become a safe haven for Cuban immigrants and their families. It’s history lies side-by-side with Cuban culture. First, second and third generation Cubans make-up the majority of the community.

Plaza Celia is the latest homage to Cuban culture in Little Havana. The 16-unit boutique apartment building broke ground recently, with Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The development’s name, for those not familiar with Salsa, honors the late Cuban singer Celia Cruz, the Queen of Salsa and an active voice in the fight for the justice and freedom of the Cuban people.

Metronomic, Inc, is developing the four-story project, which will sit at 2640 Southwest 12th Street and have a lobby filled with images of Cruz’s life. The building is also part of a crowd-funding platform that will offer affordable housing for students and local residents.

“Celia Cruz is a hero in the Cuban community,” Metronomic President Ricky Trinidad told the press. “We wanted to recognize her legacy as a musician and as a humanitarian by naming the building in her honor.”

Plaza Celia is expected for completion next winter.