In a move to further green urban landscapes and bolster city parks, Portland Parks & Recreation Director Adena Long has been elected to the City Parks Alliance (CPA) Board of Directors. The announcement, made following the board's June meeting, brings Long’s substantial public service experience to the national stage of urban park development and maintenance. According to a statement on Portland.gov, "I am honored to be selected to serve on the Board," says Director Long. “And excited to contribute to the advocacy efforts and vital resources the City Parks Alliance brings to urban park systems across the country."
City Parks Alliance Executive Director Catherine Nagel expressed enthusiasm about Long's addition, stating, "City Parks Alliance’s Board of Directors represents the diverse perspectives of the organizations and individuals working to create sustainable, equitable, healthy parks in our cities," as reported by Portland.gov. Her comment reflects CPA's commitment to inclusivity and innovation in urban park design and community engagement. Based in Washington, DC, the Alliance is the only organization of its kind, entirely dedicated to advocating for urban park excellence nationwide.
The CPA board prides itself on a multifaceted approach, pulling talent from the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Long joins this cohort with an impressive track record. She took charge of Portland Parks & Recreation in 2019 and directs operations for a gamut of facilities, including parks, natural areas, and community gardens. She manages a peak season workforce of nearly 3,000 staff and a budget upward of $550 million.
Long's influence has been felt significantly through her advocacy for equity, inclusivity, and accessibility. Her leadership played a crucial part in passing the Parks Local Option Levy in 2020, which aims to permanently further sustainable funding for park initiatives. As noted by Portland.gov, Long's career began in New York City in 1997, where she quickly rose to become the first woman of color and youngest individual to serve in various senior roles within the city's parks department before her move to Portland.
Long is not only a force in the public realm but also maintains active engagement in her community, residing in Southwest Portland with her family. Her personal and professional ethos seem to seamlessly marry, embodying the CPA's vision for urban communities to bask in the wealth of high-quality, sustainable green spaces.
