The City of San José follows a structured process for naming new parks, trails, and community centers through the Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services (PRNS) department. The process includes two stages: community participation through online surveys and official name approval by City leadership. Community members first suggest and rank potential names through surveys. Staff then review the results, ensure names meet City Council Policy 7-5 criteria, and develop recommendations.
The Parks and Recreation Commission reviews these recommendations and proposes a name to the City Council, which makes the final decision. Naming suggestions must meet specific criteria such as reflecting geographic location, nearby landmarks, historical events, or individuals who have made significant contributions. Individuals must be deceased for at least five years before being considered. The process also encourages names that reflect diversity, community identity, and the historical and cultural significance of San José.
The City of San Juan Capistrano has established policies guiding the naming of streets and public parks. Council Policy 417 outlines criteria for naming new streets, emphasizing names that are easily pronounceable, avoid duplication with existing streets, and reflect the city’s history, character, or physical setting. Spanish street names are encouraged where appropriate to reflect the city’s heritage, with specific naming conventions for different types of streets.
In addition, Resolution No. 75-3-5-5 establishes principles for naming public parks and recreation facilities. The policy assigns responsibility to the Park and Recreation Commission to review proposed names and make recommendations to the City Council for final approval. Park names may honor individuals or groups of civic significance, local historical importance, or community leaders, and neighborhood parks near schools may be named after the adjacent school.
