Billings Names New Leader Over Parks, Trails And Public Lands

If you’ve spent time at Pioneer Park, walked the trails at Riverfront Park, cooled off at a city splash pad, or cheered your kids on at a local ball field, you already know how fortunate Billings is when it comes to outdoor spaces.

Not every city has the kind of access Billings residents do. We’ve got neighborhood parks, hiking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, open public land, and plenty of places where families can unplug for a while and just enjoy a break.

Those spaces matter not only to the people who call Billings home, but also to visitors who come here and get a first impression of our community through those parks and outdoor spaces.

Now, the person helping oversee all of that is officially stepping into the role permanently.

Gavin Woltjer Officially Gets The Permanent Role

The City of Billings has officially selected Gavin Woltjer as the permanent director of Parks, Recreation, and Public Lands.

If that name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s already been leading the department in an interim capacity since March of last year. This move simply makes things official after more than a year of guiding the department through a transition period.

Woltjer Brings Years Of Leadership Experience

Woltjer isn’t new to leading major community resources. Before stepping into this role, he spent nearly ten years leading the Billings Public Library, where he helped oversee operations, planning, and long-term projects.

That experience appears to have prepared him well for managing another important part of daily life in Billings.

His background includes managing budgets, overseeing major projects, building long-term plans, and working closely with both staff and community members.

Why Strong Park Leadership Matters To Families

Parks may seem simple on the surface, but they play a big role in everyday life.

They’re where kids play soccer, families gather for birthdays, friends meet for walks, and visitors experience what makes Billings special.

Well-maintained parks and recreation programs can make a city feel more welcoming, healthier, and more connected.

Having stable leadership in place helps ensure those spaces continue to improve and remain places people actually want to use.

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What’s Next For Billings Parks And Public Lands

In his permanent role, Woltjer will continue overseeing parks, recreation programs, public lands, and other outdoor spaces throughout Billings.

For residents, that means the places you already love will continue getting the attention they deserve.  And for visitors? It means their next trip to Billings may come with an even better outdoor experience.