Mamdani Names Shimamura NYC Parks Commissioner
TODAY Mayor Zohran Mamdani appointed Tricia Shimamura as Commissioner of the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation. Shimamura currently serves as Manhattan Borough Commissioner for NYC Parks Department and brings more than a decade of experience advancing major infrastructure projects and working closely with communities across New York City to deliver for working people.
As Manhattan Borough Commissioner, Shimamura expanded community outreach, led the agency’s on-the-ground response to the Inwood Hill Park fires in the fall of 2024, and oversaw the reopening of Phase 1 of East River Park. Her career reflects a commitment to listening to New Yorkers and delivering results for working people.
As Director of Government Relations at Columbia University, she spearheaded an ambitious vote-by-mail initiative for more than 20,000 students during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, where she helped advance critical infrastructure projects including the East River Esplanade and Phase 1 of the Second Avenue Subway.
The NYC Parks Department oversees more than 30,000 acres of land – nearly 14 percent of New York City – providing essential public spaces that millions of New Yorkers rely on every day. Shimamura brings extensive experience managing large-scale public operations and navigating crises.
“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,” said Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani. “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.”
“It is an honor to join Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s 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,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura. “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.”
https://www.nyc.gov/mayors-office/news/2026/01/mayor-zohran-mamdani-appoints-tricia-shimamura-as-nyc-parks-comm.html