Adena Long, Director of Portland Parks & Recreation, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the City Parks Alliance (CPA). The election took place during the board’s June 21 meeting in Seattle, WA. The CPA board brings together expertise from the public, private, and non-profit sectors to support the organization’s vision of ensuring that everyone in urban communities has access to high-quality parks and green spaces that are clean, safe, and vibrant.
Established in 2000 by urban parks administrators and advocates, educates and elevates a diverse constituency to leverage the power of parks in shaping equitable, resilient, and thriving cities, The City Parks Alliance is the only independent, nationwide membership organization solely dedicated to urban parks.
“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’s Board of Directors represents the diverse perspectives of the organizations and individuals working to create sustainable, equitable, healthy parks in our cities,” said City Parks Alliance Executive Director Catherine Nagel. “We are thrilled to add Director Long to our Board of Directors and for bringing their expertise and leadership to our organization.”
Long, who has led Portland Parks & Recreation since February 2019, oversees one of the nation’s most comprehensive and diverse park systems. Her leadership spans 154 developed parks, 8,000 acres of natural areas, four million trees, 160 miles of trails, 12 community and art centers, 11 indoor and outdoor pools, six golf courses, 60 community gardens, a motor raceway, and the world’s smallest park. With an annual budget of $550 million, Long manages nearly 3,000 staff members during peak season.
Long’s career in public service began in 1997 as a seasonal Urban Park Ranger in New York City. She quickly advanced, becoming the first woman of color and youngest individual to serve as Parks Borough Commissioner, and later held roles as Assistant Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner for Urban Park Service and Public Programs.
Long’s tenure with Portland Parks & Recreation is marked by her commitment to inclusivity, equity, and accessibility. Notably, she spearheaded the successful passage of the Parks Local Option Levy in 2020, securing crucial funding for Portland Parks & Recreation’s sustainable future.
Long holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Science in Non-Profit Management from The New School University. She is an active member of the Portland community, residing in Southwest Portland with her husband Jon and their German Shepherd Selina. Outside of her professional duties, she enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest, yard work, true crime, 90s hip-hop, and playing darts.
