Nestled in the heart of Miramar, The Knolls is more than just a residential development—it’s a living testament to the growth and spirit of our city. For decades, its tree-lined streets, welcoming parks, and community-driven ethos have made The Knolls a cherished place to call home. But how did this neighborhood emerge, and what are the stories behind its streets and sites? Let’s take a journey through the history and heritage of The Knolls, as seen through the eyes of longtime residents and local lore.
The Origins of The Knolls
The Knolls traces its roots back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, when Miramar itself was evolving from a quiet agricultural area into a vibrant suburban city. At that time, land developers saw promise in the spacious tracts west of U.S. Highway 441, envisioning an ideal suburban haven perfectly suited for growing families.
The name “The Knolls” derives from the natural undulating terrain that distinguished this part of Miramar. When early planners laid out the neighborhood’s wide streets—such as SW 69th Avenue and SW 20th Street—they took care to preserve the gentle rises and dips that set the area apart. These soft “knolls” became not just a defining landscape feature but also a symbol of the community’s harmonious blend with nature.
Key Historical Milestones
Over the decades, The Knolls has experienced transformative periods that have shaped its character:
- 1970s: Development Spark
The first homes rose on lots off SW 68th Avenue, characterized by mid-century optimism. Neighborhood parks, like the legendary Forzano Park on SW 68th Avenue, quickly followed as gathering spots for children and adults alike.
- 1980s: Community Building
By the 1980s, The Knolls was bustling with life. Block parties, neighborhood watch programs, and holiday parades became common. Homeowner associations took root, fostering collaboration and shared pride.
- 1990s–2000s: Growth and Integration
As Miramar expanded further west, The Knolls became a bridge between the city’s established eastern neighborhoods and newer developments to the west. This period saw the modernization of local schools like Fairway Elementary, ensuring families had top-tier education close by.
- 2010s–Present: Focus on Heritage and Renewal
In recent years, residents have rallied to preserve The Knolls’ unique charm while embracing the updates necessary for modern living. Beautification projects along SW 69th Way and active preservation of mature trees and green spaces reflect a community devoted to its roots.
Notable Landmarks and Buildings
The Knolls may not boast towering skyscrapers, but its most cherished landmarks tell the story of a community built on neighborliness and continuity.
- Forzano Park
Established in the early days of The Knolls, Forzano Park remains the neighborhood’s unofficial heart. With sports fields, shady playgrounds, and picnic areas under grand live oaks, it’s where families gather for weekend barbecues and local youth teams make memories.
- Original Knolls Homes
Many homes along SW 20th Street retain their vintage Florida ranch architecture, evoking the area’s 1970s beginnings. These houses, with sprawling front lawns and pastel facades, are a visual reminder of Miramar’s formative years.
- Fairway Elementary School
Just outside The Knolls’ western border, this school has served generations of children from the neighborhood. Its recent renovations continue to blend tradition with the needs of new learners.
- St. Stephen’s Catholic Church
Founded in the late 1970s just a block east, St. Stephen’s has been a spiritual and social anchor, hosting food drives, festivals, and community meetings for decades.
The Evolution of The Knolls
Step onto any street in The Knolls today, and you’ll find a patchwork of old and new—a place where longtime residents recall stories from the ’70s while young families build fresh traditions.
Community Spirit
The neighborhood is still known for its tradition of block parties and holiday decorating contests—just ask anyone on SW 16th Court who remembers the “Lights on the Knoll” competition each December. These deeply rooted customs bind residents together across generations.
Green Spaces and Connectivity
The Knolls’ parks and mature trees have always been community cornerstones. Today, residents are passionate about green living, advocating for waterwise landscaping and native plantings—especially along the scenic Coral Lake Drive, which curves through the neighborhood and offers tranquil views.
Embracing Diversity
Miramar’s growth has brought remarkable diversity to The Knolls, evident in its vibrant mix of cultures, foods, and languages. School fairs at Fairway Elementary and holiday celebrations at neighborhood parks show how The Knolls continues to welcome new families while honoring the pioneers who first envisioned this peaceful enclave.
Why The Knolls Stands Out
Ask any resident what makes The Knolls special, and you’ll hear about more than houses and streets. It’s the feeling of safety during an evening stroll, the sight of kids playing in Forzano Park, or the friendly wave from a neighbor you’ve known for years.
The Knolls represents the best of Miramar—community resilience, pride in one’s surroundings, and an appreciation for both heritage and progress. Whether you’re a lifelong local or a newcomer drawn by the neighborhood’s charm, there’s always room for one more story in The Knolls’ ongoing legacy.
Closing Thoughts
From its naturally rolling landscape to its profoundly neighborly spirit, The Knolls is a treasure trove of Miramar history and heart. It’s a neighborhood where the past is never far away but always used as a foundation for a brighter future. That’s what makes The Knolls—our beloved corner of Miramar—so enduringly special.