Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has named Travis Ewald as the County’s Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Conservation.

The County’s Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department manages and maintains more than 3,400 scenic acres of parkland.

Ewald, who previously served as Deputy Commissioner in the County’s Department of Public Works, begins his new position on September 1. He will replace Jim Brooks, who is retiring later this summer. Brooks served as Parks Commissioner for more than five years.

“Travis has been an asset to the County’s DPW, and I know that he will be successful in his new role,” Neuhaus said. “Travis is hard-working, has a great vision and is easy to work with. He is very enthusiastic about his new role, and I know that Travis will enhance our already outstanding Parks Department.”

Neuhaus also thanked Brooks for his service to the County.

“Jim was eager to tackle a variety of important projects, including the extension of the Heritage Trail, and was always able to get them completed,” Neuhaus said. “He was a wonderful team player and served the taxpayers of Orange County well. I wish Jim and his family all the best in his retirement.”

Ewald was hired as the County’s Deputy DPW Commissioner in 2015, managing the Department of Public Works Division of Engineering along with Orange County’s highways and bridges. Ewald, a Town of Crawford resident, has been involved with many Orange County Parks construction projects, including the Heritage Trail expansion through the Village of Harriman and the City of Middletown.

“I’m thankful to County Executive Neuhaus for giving me the opportunity to serve in this key role,” Ewald said. “I look forward to collaborating with County Executive Neuhaus, the Legislature and the great Parks staff to showcase the County’s beautiful parks system and the many programs and activities that we offer.”

Ewald’s appointment as Parks Commissioner is subject to approval by the Legislature.