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Buena Vista’s Town Square is getting closer to having a new name. After reviewing dozens of creative submissions from the community, the selection committee has narrowed the choices to three names that, according to a spokesperson “reflect the city’s rich history, vibrant spirit, and shared vision for the future.”
The committee now turns to the community to make the final selection. A fundraising contest is being held in which voters make a contribution in favor of the name they prefer for Town Square. The name with the highest amount of donations will be declared the winner.
The three finalists, in no particular order, along with narratives submitted by the committee highlighting why each would be a great fit and explaining their local significance, are as follows: Green Valley Junction – This name honors Buena Vista’s original name, Green Valley, reflecting the city’s early history before it was officially renamed in the late 1800s. The addition of “Junction” acknowledges the city’s rail history, symbolizing a place where paths cross, much like a railroad junction. Situated at the heart of the city, the space serves as a meeting point for all – uniting the past with the present and emphasizing the interconnectedness of the community.
Magnolia Square – This name draws inspiration from Magnolia Avenue, where the gathering space is located. The name evokes a sense of elegance and timeless charm, symbolizing a welcoming space for the community to gather, grow and create lasting memories. Just as the magnolia tree is known for its strength and beauty, Magnolia Square represents a vibrant, flourishing hub at the heart of Buena Vista.
Picadilly Commons – This name honors the beloved Piccadilly Restaurant, which stood on part of the site in the 1950s. This name evokes a sense of nostalgia, connecting Buena Vista’s past with its present. The name also creates a fun parallel to the renowned Piccadilly Circus in London, symbolizing the space as a lively gathering place for community connection and creativity. The public is invited to share any additional memories or information about the Piccadilly Restaurant to help further enrich this piece of Buena Vista’s history.
“This project continues to be a testament to the power of community,” said Mayor Tyson Cooper. “These name finalists reflect our shared story and the sense of pride and connection that make Buena Vista such a special place. We can’t wait to see which name the community chooses.”
Voting is open now through May 1, and there are two ways to participate. Online voting is available at www.buenavistava.org/name-town-square/. For those who prefer to vote in person, ballot boxes are located at restaurants, gas stations, the city treasurer’s office, the Glen Maury Park office and Town Square itself. Voters should simply enclose their donation in a ballot envelope, write their choice, and drop it in the box. The name with the highest total donations will be declared the winner.
“Just as the successful fundraiser for Penny Park many years ago engaged residents in its development and naming through donations,” said the spokesperson, “the Town Square naming initiative now provides an opportunity for everyone to leave their mark on a space that will serve as a vibrant hub for generations to come. While funding from the city and previous donations have carried the project to near completion, additional resources are still needed to bring it across the finish line. Each vote represents a meaningful investment in the city’s future, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in this shared achievement.”
Town Square, the spokesperson continued, “has been shaped by the hard work, donations and expertise of Buena Vista’s residents. Construction continues alongside the voting process, with the winning name to be revealed during a summer celebration event. The event will honor everyone who contributed to making this vision a reality.”
For more information, visit www.buenavistava.org/ name-town-square/ or contact the Buena Vista Economic Development Office at [email protected] or (540) 261-8608.
