By Tiffany Williams –
NEW YORK — Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Thursday appointed Tricia Shimamura as commissioner of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. Shimamura, currently Manhattan borough commissioner for the Parks Department, brings more than a decade of experience managing major infrastructure projects and engaging communities across the city.
As Manhattan borough commissioner, Shimamura expanded community outreach, led the response to the 2024 Inwood Hill Park fires, and oversaw the reopening of Phase 1 of East River Park. She previously served as director of government relations at Columbia University, where she ran a vote-by-mail initiative for more than 20,000 students during the COVID-19 pandemic, and as deputy chief of staff to Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, helping advance projects including the East River Esplanade and Phase 1 of the Second Avenue Subway.
The Parks Department manages more than 30,000 acres — nearly 14 percent of New York City — providing public spaces used daily by millions.
“Our city’s parks embody the promise of public spaces — they’re where childhood memories are formed, where leisure can be found, where I got to hone my soccer skills (or lack thereof) throughout school, and most importantly where the greatness of our city is within so many New Yorker’s reach,” Mamdani said. “I’m excited to be announcing the appointment of a Parks Commissioner who has spent her career showing up, and listening to, communities across our city. Under the leadership of Tricia Shimamura, our Parks Department will strive to make this a city that every New Yorker can afford to not just live in but enjoy.”
Shimamura said she is honored to join the administration. “Early in my career as a social worker, I saw firsthand how government fell short for working families and students — and how our public infrastructure too often mirrored those failures,” she said. “I have dedicated my career to building a city that truly serves working people and investing in infrastructure that reflects that commitment. As Parks Commissioner, I will ensure our parks are not only free, but welcoming, vibrant spaces that every New Yorker can be proud of.”