Alexandria leaders are praising NOVA Parks Executive Director Paul Gilbert, who recently announced that he will step down by December.
Gilbert has led the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority for 20 years. In Alexandria, his organization acquired the Winkler Botanical Preserve in 2022, and owns and operates Cameron Run Regional Park and Carlyle House Historic Park.
“It has been a great honor to partner with the leaders of Northern Virginia as we have built a stronger community with vibrant regional parks,” Gilbert said earlier this month. ““Over this time, we have been able to expand the regional park system by adding and upgrading facilities and lands. The entire region benefits from a healthy environment and unique, memorable experiences.”
NOVA Parks manages 37 parks in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Loudoun County, the City of Falls Church, and the City of Fairfax.
The 12-member NOVA Parks board will be conducting a nationwide search for Gilbert’s replacement, led by Baker Tilly Public Sector Executive Recruitment and with involvement from appointed representatives of each jurisdiction.
Mayor Alyia Gaskins said Gilbert helped Alexandria become a more livable community.
“During Paul’s tenure, he has built a stronger community with vibrant regional parks,” Gaskins said. “The City of Alexandria is grateful for the dedication and the professionalism he has shown over the years. It is because of his hard work and dedication that Alexandria remains such a wonderful community.”
Former Mayor Justin Wilson called Gilbert a visionary leader.
“Paul has been a visionary leader for NOVA Parks, leading the unique regional parks agency with an entrepreneurial spirit and conservation focus,” Wilson said. “Paul’s leadership has continued to shape Cameron Run, provide stewardship of Carlyle House and assume ownership of the Winkler Preserve, one of the most significant urban parks in the region. Paul should be congratulated on his successful tenure.”
According to NOVA Parks, under Gilbert’s leadership, the organization acquired 22 properties totaling 1,800 acres, 15 new parks, and three expanded parks.
