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Longtime city leader Sonia Schmanski has stepped in as acting director while a national search begins for a permanent successor.
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Today, Adena Long announced her resignation from the City of Portland, concluding more than six years of dedicated service as director of Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R).
During her tenure, Long led the bureau through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, oversaw the successful implementation of the Major Maintenance General Obligation Bond, and played a key role in the passage and activation of the Parks Levy. Under her leadership, PP&R also launched initiatives such as Parks Access Pass, which reduces cost as a barrier to programming, and the Schools to Pools program that helps young Portlanders learn to swim. These, among many other accomplishments, have strengthened Portland’s parks system and enriched communities citywide.
In a farewell message to PP&R staff, Long reflected on the bureau’s impact:
“We have created accessible third spaces for Portlanders to learn, play, express themselves, and connect; managed green open spaces that make our city healthier and more resilient; provided meals and educational programs for children, offering them essential life skills and a secure environment; collaborated with partners and volunteers to leverage and magnify our respective efforts; contributed to the city’s economic growth, and played a role in community revitalization.”
The City of Portland thanks Long for her leadership and service and wishes her continued success in all future endeavors.
Longtime city leader Sonia Schmanski is acting as director until the City conducts a national search for its next long-term director.