Mayor Nutter announced this afternoon that Michael DiBerardinis, a top state official who once served as the city recreation commissioner, will take the helm of the newly merged department of parks and recreation.
The appointment was first reported in the Inky today.
"I love this park system. And I think having recreation opportunities for kids and those who are young at heart is the cernterpice of what the city is supposed to be," Nutter said. "I could think of no better person to do that than Mike DiBerardinis."
DiBerardinis is leaving his post as the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary to take on the job. He spent eight years as the city's recreation commissioner under Mayor Rendell, expanding programs and revitalizing city parks, playgrounds and pools.
Nutter said DiBerardinis will oversee the merging of the two departments, which is scheduled to be complete by July 1. He starts work on April 6.