Mid City Times

Dave Lewis has been appointed as the new director of the Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department. He brings over 16 years of management and executive-level experience to his new role, which he will assume on February 17, following a nationwide search.

Since joining the City of Fort Worth in 2019, Lewis has served in various capacities, including assistant director of the Golf and Athletics Division, interim director, and deputy director. In these roles, he managed administration, golf and athletics, and recreation.

Assistant City Manager Jesica McEachern expressed confidence in Lewis's leadership: “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.”

Lewis succeeds Richard Zavala, who is retiring at the end of April after leading the department since 1992. Looking ahead to his new position, Lewis stated: “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.”

Before moving to Fort Worth in 2019, Lewis held several positions with the Metropolitan Park District of Tacoma in Washington. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Eastern Washington University and is active in various state and national parks associations.

The Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department is accredited by the National Recreation and Parks Association. It oversees 305 parks covering 13,136 acres across the city and offers numerous recreational activities and educational programs.