New parks director is named

By Charles Sercombe
The Hamtramck Parks Conservancy (HPC) has a new executive director, and he’s no stranger to the city.
Thomas Habitz, Jr., of Hamtramck, became executive director in September, after a several-month search. He has also served on the Zoning Board of Appeals.
“Our parks are the lifeblood of our community in many ways,” Habitz said in a press release. “They are places that bring us together, honor our heritage, and create new memories. It is a privilege to steward these indispensable assets, and it is an exciting time in Hamtramck as we chart our future course together.”
Habitz has played roles in planning and economic development in the Detroit area, and spent a lengthy career with Henry Ford Health, developing and executing strategy.
The HPC is responsible for the implementation of the Hamtramck Recreation District plan, which proposes to transform the 26 acres of recreation and open space on the city’s southend.
Goals of the plan include new and improved recreation fields and equipment, enhancements to accessibility, and raising the profile of the site’s historic venues.
Habitz holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan, and a master’s degree in urban planning from Wayne State University. His honors include the Detroit Revitalization Fellowship and the Marshall Memorial Fellowship (of the German Marshall Fund of the U.S.).
The Hamtramck Parks Conservancy (HPC) is a collaborative organization of the City of Hamtramck, Hamtramck Public Schools, Hamtramck Recreation Department, and community partners, all seeking to improve green spaces and recreation activities for city and area residents.
The HPC supports the Hamtramck Recreation District, which includes Veterans Park, Keyworth Stadium, Historic Hamtramck Stadium, and Playfair Field, and the many amenities and activities within them.
Posted Oct. 13, 2023