Commissioner DiBerardinis Seeks Community Input on Merger of Parks & Recreation

Dear Friend of Parks and Recreation,

I would like to extend an invitation for you to join me for a conversation on the merger of Philadelphia’s  Fairmount Park System and Department of Recreation. My vision for the newly merged Department is to become the nation’s premier Parks and Recreation provider. The vision entails becoming a leader in out of school time activities, as well as expanding outdoor recreational opportunities for adults and youth.  Identifying more space for parks and trails, along with ensuring that the City excels at maintaining its park land will be core to this mission.

I recognize that this is a pursuit that cannot be done in isolation. My staff and I have been formulating a plan to achieve these goals but we are seeking input from diverse perspectives to insure that we develop a comprehensive and inclusive guide to our future efforts.

I will be hosting eight community meetings across the city to listen to citizens’ thoughts on our plans for the future of Philadelphia’s Parks and Recreation Department. (Click here for a list of locations, dates and times.)  I am asking you to attend whichever meeting is most convenient for you. It is my hope that these meetings will help further develop the strategic objectives we have drafted as well as provide focus to the most important issues regarding Parks and Recreation in this wonderful city.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts, concerns and ideas. Should you have any questions, please forward them to merger.feedback@phila.gov. Thank you for your interest and support.

Warm regards,
Michael DiBerardinis
Parks and Recreation Commissioner