The City of Wichita has named a new park and recreation director.  Interim director Reggie Davidson has been named as the official choice for the post.

Davidson first joined the City of Wichita in 2018 when he was hired as the Superintendent of Recreation, managing recreation programming and facility operation and assisting with strategic planning for the department. Prior to his time in Wichita, he served as the Recreation Manager for the City of Round Rock, Texas. 

Davidson had served as interim director of park and recreation since last September, when Troy Houtman stepped down following a controversy over lease payments to a facility at Clapp Park.

Davidson holds an M.S. in Recreation and Leisure Services and Management from Texas State University, and a B.S. in Criminal Justice and Corrections from Jackson State University. He is a Certified Park and Recreation Executive.   He said in a press release, “When people discuss what they love about Wichita, they often talk about the green spaces, community events and opportunities to connect. Park and Recreation serves as a community connector and activator, which in turn has the added benefits of reducing crime, increasing resident satisfaction and helps contribute to the culture of our great city.”