Council names 2‑acre Sunnyvale park at Dahlia Court “Corn Palace Park”

The Sunnyvale City Council voted Feb. 4 to name the two‑acre neighborhood park under construction at 1142 Dahlia Court “Corn Palace Park,” adopting the Park and Recreation Commission’s recommendation and the recommendation from the city’s Heritage and Historical commissions.

The council action formalizes a locally used name tied to the site’s agricultural history: the parcel was the Corn Palace farm stand and was farmed by the Francia family since the 1920s; the farm stand structure was built in 1965 and operated until 2015.

“No matter what we name this park, the residents are gonna call it the Corn Palace Park, so we might as well call it the Corn Palace Park,” Council member Mellinger said during the discussion.

Why it matters: the park will add neighborhood open space, a walking loop, inclusive play equipment, shaded seating and picnic structures. Council members and commissioners emphasized historical recognition and local identity in choosing the name.

What the council decided

- Motion: Council member Srinivasan moved to adopt the Park and Recreation Commission recommendation to name the park Corn Palace Park; Council member Chang seconded the motion. The roll call vote was 7–0 in favor.

Details staff provided

- Location & size: The park site is a roughly two‑acre parcel bounded by Toyon, Lily and Lawrence near 1142 Dahlia Court. The park is intended as a neighborhood park serving an approximate quarter‑mile walking radius.

- Amenities: Design elements shown to council included a youth play area with inclusive features, shaded seating, fitness equipment, a walking loop and picnic areas.

- Historical recognition: Staff said one of the original signs had been taken by the Francia family and another was not salvageable; the city has received a historic plaque and staff will install that plaque in the park. Staff reported ongoing communication with the Francia family about the original sign.

Public process: City staff said they solicited input from the Historical Society, Heritage Commission, and Human Relations Commission before the Park and Recreation Commission’s vote; the Park and Recreation Commission voted to recommend “Corn Palace” by a majority.

Implementation note: The park is scheduled for completion in summer 2025; staff will install the historical plaque and follow up on the family’s original sign as available.

Ending: Council adopted the recommended name (7–0). Staff will complete final installation details and the park will open when construction is finished.