The City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities Welcomes New Director, Hashim T. Taylor

Page updated on April 14, 2025 at 9:01 AM
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Words Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities New Director Meet Hashim T. Taylor and Taylor's picture on the left

 

Today marks the first official day for Director Hashim T. Taylor at the Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities (RPCA). We are thrilled to welcome his leadership and vision as we continue to enhance recreational, park, and cultural arts programs for the residents of Alexandria.

A native of Alexandria, Taylor’s journey comes full circle—having grown up participating in RPCA programs that helped spark his passion for public service and community engagement.

Prior to joining RPCA, Taylor served as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. There, he led operations spanning over 5,000 acres of parkland, 100 miles of trails, three golf courses, six swimming pools, and numerous recreation and cultural facilities. His tenure was marked by key accomplishments, including securing more than $12 million in state and federal funding to support the $37 million ReLeaf Cedar Rapids initiative—an ambitious reforestation project launched in the aftermath of the 2020 derecho storm.

Taylor also spearheaded the development of major community assets such as the Ellis Golf Course Event Center, Jones Park Lodge, Hughes Park, 16th Avenue Dog Park, Riverside Skatepark, and a ten-court pickleball complex. Additionally, he led planning efforts for the Greenway Parks Plan update, expanded community gardens, and supported the development of the Westside Library Park project—all while broadening recreation programming to better serve a diverse and growing community.

We are excited for the experience, dedication, and energy that Director Taylor brings to Alexandria as he begins this new chapter with RPCA.

To learn more about Hashim Taylor please visit us on our City website: alexandriava.gov/RPCA/Hashim-Taylor.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact jackie.person@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.5535, Virginia Relay 711.

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available, please email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960