Lincoln Parks and Rec director retiring

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Lincoln Parks and Recreation Director Lynn Johnson is retiring from his position. Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird made the announcement Wednesday.

Johnson, who had served in the position since 2000, will officially leave his post in June of 2022.

“Lynn leaves his fingerprints on every one of our city's beloved parks, trails, and recreational programs," Gaylor Baird said. "His legacy of innovation, progress, and dedication to our community will continue to benefit residents into the future. It has been an honor to work alongside such an exemplary public servant, and while we will miss his incredible energy and drive as a leader on our team, we warmly wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.”

Johnson joined Lincoln Parks and Recreation in January 1997 to serve as its Planning and Construction Manager and was selected in 2000 as Director by Mayor Don Wesely when the previous director moved.

“It has been a great honor to serve as the Director of Lincoln Parks and Recreation for 22 years, and it has been a privilege to be part of the team,” Johnson said. “I am so proud of the facilities, and programs, and services that our team provides to our community every day. I want to thank the Lincoln Parks Foundation, our partnering organizations, and the public for supporting our work.”

Johnson’s s first project as Planning and Construction Manager was the site selection and design of the “F” Street Community Center. His first project as Director was the renovation of the Sunken Gardens. Johnson was also part of the Antelope Valley Project team that led the development of Union Plaza, extension of the trail along Antelope Creek north to Salt Creek, and improvements in Trago Park, including the combined sprayground and splash pad.