WESTPORT – The Town of Westport has hired former New Britain parks director Erik Barbieri as the town’s director of Parks and Recreation, effective Feb. 18, First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker announced Feb. 4.
Barbieri replaces Jennifer Fava, who left the job in May 2024 for a similar job in Darien.
Barbieri brings over 25 years of experience in parks and recreation management to the town, having led major municipal recreation initiatives and facility development projects throughout Connecticut.
“We are thrilled to welcome Erik to Westport” Tooker said. “His extensive leadership in parks and recreation, combined with his commitment to community engagement and facility excellence, makes him an outstanding choice to lead our Parks and Recreation Department into the future.”
Barbieri joins Westport from the City of New Britain, where he has served as director of parks, recreation, and community services since 2015. In this role, he managed seven divisions, including parks, recreation, a golf course, cemeteries, senior and veteran services, and disability programs. Under his leadership, New Britain successfully completed multi-million-dollar capital improvement projects, including the $10.5 million reconstruction of Osgood Park and the $5.4 million rehabilitation of AW Stanley Park.
Prior to being director, Barbieri served as superintendent of recreation for New Britain, where he oversaw large-scale youth programs, after-school initiatives, and the transformation of local parks and sports facilities. His leadership resulted in enhanced community engagement, increased program accessibility, and the successful hosting of high-profile sporting events, including international soccer exhibitions, and managing the operational budget.
Barbieri is a graduate of the University of Connecticut with a bachelor of science in parks and recreation management. His technical skills include expertise in municipal recreation software and budgeting systems, ensuring efficient operations and fiscal responsibility.
In his role in Westport, Barbieri will oversee the town’s parks, beaches, recreational facilities, and community programs, working to enhance public spaces, expand recreational opportunities, and continue the tradition of excellence in parks and recreation services.
