Doral Celebrates Grand Opening Of 78-Acre Central Park, A Historic Milestone For The City

The City of Doral marked a major milestone with the grand opening of Doral Central Park, a 78-acre community hub that city officials are calling the most transformative public space in the city’s history.

The celebration, held Saturday, May 17, featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting followed by a vibrant parade welcoming attendees into the expansive new park.

“It gives me chills, because since 2013, this has been a dream,” said Doral Mayor Christi Fraga. “There was definitely a need for this type of facility that we’ve not had — I would dare to say — in all of South Florida.”

Located on Northwest 92nd Avenue between 33rd and 25th Streets, the multimillion-dollar project is far more than a park — it’s a centerpiece for the community, offering a wide range of outdoor and recreational amenities. While some features opened as early as August, Saturday’s event celebrated the debut of two major additions: the Aquatics Center and the Community Center.

“We have an Olympic-sized swimming pool that is heated, can host competitions, includes grandstands and locker rooms,” Fraga noted.

The pool was inspired by Special Olympics swimmer Valeria van Balen, who has long advocated for such a facility in Doral.

“I’m excited and happy. I feel it’s pretty nice,” van Balen shared.

Her father, an Olympic swimmer, instilled a deep love for the sport, and her dream of a competitive swimming facility became a reality with this opening.

“Ever since she told me she wanted a big pool here, I promised, ‘When we open that park and that pool, you’ll be there cutting the ribbon,’” Fraga recalled. “And today, that promise came true.”

Just steps from the Aquatics Center is the new indoor Community Center, which includes a gym and multipurpose courts. Local resident Ana Otero was spotted enjoying a volleyball match during the opening.

“I love it. I think we really needed a park like this,” Otero said.

Another visitor, who identified himself as Mike, echoed the sentiment.

“There’s a lot of stuff going on — for families, kids, and adults too. I can’t wait to play basketball here,” he said.

To ensure the safety and well-being of visitors, the Doral Police Department has launched a dedicated park response unit.

“Our officers will be visible, engaging with the community — whether it’s playing with kids or connecting with seniors — to build those important relationships,” said Doral Police Chief Edwin Lopez.

For more details about Doral Central Park and its offerings, visit the City of Doral’s official website.

Source: WSVN7 Miami News