On Tuesday, June 27, Alameda City Manager Jennifer Ott announced that Justin Long has been chosen to lead the Alameda Recreation and Parks Department (ARPD) as its new Director. Long, a highly skilled parks and recreation professional, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role.
A landscape architect and current resident of Alameda, Long previously served as Deputy Director of Parks for the City of San Jose, Assistant Superintendent for Environmental Stewardship for the Parks and Recreation Board of the City of Minneapolis, and Operations Manager for the City of Atlanta’s park system.
Ott expressed her enthusiasm about Long’s appointment. “Following an extensive and competitive search, I’m excited to welcome Justin to the executive team at the City of Alameda and look forward to working together to enhance the park and recreation experience for the Alameda community,” she stated. “Justin’s landscape architecture background, executive parks experience, and commitment to innovation, equity, and service excellence make him an ideal candidate for this position.”
As the Director of ARPD, Long will report to Assistant City Manager Amy Wooldridge—a previous ARPD Director—and will collaborate closely with the City’s executive team. ARPD, California’s third oldest recreation program, manages a network of 26 parks covering 200 acres along with 17 recreation facilities, and oversees a 45-hole golf course. The department also offers a diverse range of programming and events catering to individuals of all ages.
ARPD boasts a dedicated team of 31 full-time employees, more than 300 seasonal part-time staff, and 250 volunteers. With an annual operating budget of $13 million and an additional $7 million capital budget, the department is well-equipped to provide essential recreational services to the community.
Long also expressed his enthusiasm about his new role. “I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and expertise to the City of Alameda and contribute to the continued success of the Recreation and Parks Department,” he said. “I am passionate about the field of parks and recreation, especially in my hometown, and will strive to create meaningful and equitable experiences for all community members.”
Ott and the City extended gratitude to David Leimsieder, who served as the Acting Recreation and Parks Director since the beginning of the year during the recruitment and appointment process.
