City of Fort Worth appoints Dave Lewis as the new director of the Park and Recreation Department

Fort Worth, Texas – Fort Worth has named Dave Lewis as the new director of its Park & Recreation Department following an extensive nationwide search. Lewis, a seasoned parks and recreation professional with over 16 years of executive-level experience, will officially begin his new role on February 17.

Lewis has been an integral part of the Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department since 2019, serving in multiple leadership positions, including assistant director of the Golf and Athletics Division, interim director, and deputy director. In his most recent role, he oversaw administration, golf and athletics, and recreation. His experience and dedication to the city’s parks have made him a standout candidate for the position.

Assistant City Manager Jesica McEachern, who oversees the Park & Recreation Department, emphasized the city’s high expectations for the next director.

“Throughout this process, we searched for someone who could bring a bold vision to further enhance our parks, community centers, aquatic facilities, and natural spaces. We found it in Dave’s passion for our community, leadership, and dedication,” McEachern said. “Under Dave’s guidance—and with a commitment to innovation, accessibility, and excellence—we’re confident that our city’s parks and recreational offerings will set the standard as the best in the nation.”

A New Era for Fort Worth Parks

Lewis will be taking over from Richard Zavala, who has been the department’s director since 1992 and will be retiring at the end of April. Zavala’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping Fort Worth’s expansive parks system, and Lewis aims to build upon that legacy while introducing new initiatives.

“I am excited to usher in a new era for the Park & Recreation Department and look forward to sharing details of a new vision for the park system,” Lewis said. “Several opportunities are coming together at once, including the completion of Greenprint Fort Worth, which is the department’s new master plan, new aspirational strategies, and the Mayor’s Good Natured Initiative that will help provide a roadmap to becoming the best park system in the country.”

With a focus on accessibility, sustainability, and innovation, Lewis plans to continue expanding recreational opportunities and ensuring that Fort Worth’s parks serve as vibrant, welcoming spaces for the entire community.

A Strong Background in Parks Management

Before joining the Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department in 2019, Lewis held several key positions with the Metropolitan Park District of Tacoma, Washington, including deputy director. His extensive background in managing public park systems, overseeing large-scale initiatives, and working with community stakeholders has prepared him well for this new role.

Lewis holds a Bachelor of Science degree in communications from Eastern Washington University and is an active member of multiple state and national associations related to the parks and recreation industry. His expertise in community engagement, urban planning, and recreational programming makes him well-suited to lead Fort Worth’s parks into the future.

A Parks System That Enriches the Community

The Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department plays a crucial role in enhancing the city’s quality of life. Accredited by the National Recreation and Parks Association, the department manages 305 parks covering 13,136 acres, as well as numerous public spaces. It also provides recreational activities and educational programming that promote wellness, sustainability, and community engagement.

As Lewis steps into his new leadership role, the city anticipates continued progress in making Fort Worth’s parks system one of the best in the country. Residents can expect new initiatives, improved recreational facilities, and a strengthened commitment to preserving the city’s natural beauty for future generations.