Corn Palace Plaza and Streetscape Improvements

Corn Palace Plaza and Streetscape Improvements

Mitchell, South Dakota

The streetscape and vacated street adjacent to the Corn Palace has been transformed into an inviting and safe environment that can accommodate a variety of outdoor public events and is viewed as an extension of the Corn Palace experience.

The project began with an extensive public visioning process. Confluence led a steering committee consisting of local representatives from a mix of private and public entities to determine project goals and evaluate public feedback. Program options and initial concepts were presented at two open house sessions that were well attended by the public. This collaborative process resulted in the development of a master plan with strong community support. The phase I implementation project involved the reconstruction of Main Avenue to include several pedestrian safety considerations such as narrowed street crossings, a mid-block speed table, and landscape enhancements that control pedestrian movement and beautify the streetscape. Phase I also included the initial features of the plaza including an iconic monument sign, corn cob sculpture, and landscape and utility infrastructure to support the next phase of development. Phase II implementation includes a new shade structure, permanent stage, mist feature and final landscape enhancements.