Dade City names new downtown green space 'Veterans Park'; DAR offers Liberty Tree

The Dade City Commission voted 5-0 to name the new downtown playground and splash pad Veterans Park after reviewing public input and a community survey.

The unnamed park, located off the Hardy Trail and adjacent to Church Street near the American Legion hall, has several proposed names recorded in a community survey hosted by the Dade City Heritage Museum. City staff asked the commission to select a name to allow Google Maps updates, signage installation and event advertising.

Commissioners discussed options including "Veterans Park," "Patriot Park," "Heritage Park," "Hardy Park" and "Church Street Community Park." Multiple speakers, including local patriots and representatives of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), urged a name that would honor military service while also welcoming broader civic participation. DAR member Marie Wunderlich said the group preferred the name "Patriot Park" as inclusive, adding that "Patriot's Park would also include all veterans active duty and retired." The commission prioritized the survey results and community sentiment and chose Veterans Park.

Commissioners and members of the public asked the city to pair the name with visible elements that reflect the theme. Suggestions included a flag display, paving stones or plaques to honor local veterans and a veterans tribute area or pavilion. Commissioner(s) said naming the site Veterans Park would help target design and fundraising, including potential grant requests for veteran-related amenities.

Representatives of the DAR also offered to contribute to the site: Karen Gaskin, chair of the local DAR committee, told the commission her group is willing to plant a Liberty Tree at the splash pad to mark the national semi-quincentennial (the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence) and to participate in related city celebrations.

The motion to adopt the name carried on a roll-call vote of five ayes and no nays. Commissioners said they would return with design options and possible commemorative elements — some commissioners specifically suggested exploring donor recognition for land contributors in a way that fits the park's veteran theme.

What happens next

Staff will draft a resolution to formalize the name and proceed with signage, maps and promotional materials; commissioners signaled interest in pairing the name with physical features (flag court, pavers, a Liberty Tree) and in pursuing grants and community donations to fund improvements.