Mayor Mamdani Names Tricia Shimamura as New Parks Commissioner

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has appointed Tricia Shimamura as the city’s new parks commissioner, marking a key leadership change in the Parks Department.

The announcement was made on Saturday at Highbridge Park in the Bronx, where light snowfall set the backdrop for the event. Mayor Mamdani emphasized the importance of public parks in improving quality of life for city residents.

Shimamura brings prior experience from her role as Manhattan borough commissioner within the Parks Department and also has a professional background in social work. City officials said her combined administrative and community-focused experience will guide the department’s future direction.

Both Mamdani and Shimamura stated that expanding access to well-maintained parks will be a priority under the new administration. The mayor highlighted parks as inclusive public spaces that remain open and accessible to residents of all backgrounds.

In her remarks, Shimamura said she plans to focus on making parks not only free to enter but also welcoming, engaging, and well cared for across all neighborhoods.

Shimamura succeeds Iris Rodriguez Rosa, who was appointed to the position last year during the previous mayoral administration. The transition comes as the city outlines broader plans for public space development and neighborhood revitalization.