An Aeriel view of the Gateway Terrace apartments located on Karen Bay consisting on 8 acres, 32 buildings and 257 apartments. There are 1500 feet of shoreline seawalls with 8 docks that are home to beautiful yachts and sailboats from all over the world. There are 27 species of 231 trees on the property--one of the most notable being the Crepe Myrtle trees that can only grow south of Lake Okeechobee.



At one time, in the 1920s, it was a lush tomato farm. During WW 2 barracks were built for our enlisted men. When the war ended the land was purchased by a developer from Connecticut who built the first townhouse community for the wealthy to enjoy the winter season.

Movie Mogul Louis B. mayer had as his guests Bob Hope and Jackie Gleason. The Palmolive Soap Company accommodated executives and stars from their radio shows.

In 1967 the property was acquired by the second Presbyterian Church and with the help of HUD was converted into affordable housing.

Over the years the property fell into disrepair. The city took action to have it torn down. In 1985, with the help of a five million dollar grant the property was saved from the wrecking ball and on September 24, 1987 a ceremony was held to mark the beginning of the renovation.

I moved in on June 1, 1999 and in 2002 the movie "Striptease" with Demi Moore and Burt Reynolds was filmed here--I've never seen it!

The property now consists of 32 buildings containing 257 apartments and is one of the richest properties sought after by developers.

I am standing in front of the entrance to my 3 storied building--I live on the top floor.