A week after Albemarle County Executive Bob Tucker announced his retirement after 20 years on the job, another key player in county affairs is following suit.
Pat Mullaney, director of Parks and Recreation, will retire on December 31, after 29 years in the role. Mullaney began his career in the county in 1978 as recreation program coordinator, and became director in 1981.
In his time as director, Mullaney has seen the expansion of green spaces in the county from 1,200 acres of parkland in 1981 to 3,300 acres at present. The increase in acreage includes the addition of Ivy Creek Natural Area, Darden Towe Park and Walnut Creek Park, to name a few.
“Pat has been a strong and visionary leader for our Parks and Recreation Department and many of the most popular amenities that local residents enjoy are a direct result of his efforts,” said Tucker in a news release. “Many acres of parkland, miles of trails and greenways, and swimming, boating and fishing options have come to fruition during Pat’s tenure.”
