Citing his innovative approach, vision and leadership in managing and maintaining park facilities and programming, Mayor Greg Fischer today named Seve Ghose as the new director of Metro Parks and Recreation.
Ghose is currently deputy superintendent of the Willamalane Park and Recreation District in Springfield, Oregon, overseeing a system of 43 parks/natural areas, numerous trails and sporting facilities. He is also a former parks director of the City of Davenport, Iowa and has worked in a leadership role in the park system in Portland, Oregon — an Olmsted Park system.
“Louisville is known nationwide for its rich parks history,” Fischer said. “Seve’s innovative approach, strategic thinking and ability to engage the public in healthy activities will build on the legacy of Olmsted, continue the development of the Louisville Loop and protect our green space for future generations.
In his current role, Ghose created 1Pass, a $50 pass for anyone under 18. Students get unlimited summer access to park facilities and programs – a bowling alley and roller skating rink, the local museum and free rides on public transit. In its first year, 1,030 passes sold as part of a broader strategy to promote health and wellness. He also recruited a semi-pro soccer team to play in a park facility and extended community center hours around the clock to meet user needs.
“Louisville is a dream community for a parks enthusiast,” Ghose said. “It is an honor to be selected by Mayor Fischer and to work with a talented Metro Parks and Recreation team, their board, the Olmsted Parks Conservancy and the Parklands of Floyds Fork.”
Ghose will begin his new role September 1.