Chris Abbott Named Deputy Commissioner of Parks and Recreation

Published on August 10, 2023

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh promoted Chris Abbott to Deputy Commissioner of Parks Recreation and Youth Programs for the City of Syracuse. Abbott has been the department’s Recreation Program Director since 2002.

Abbott oversees recreational and enrichment programming and serves as the coordinator of Health and Wellness initiatives. He also works closely with multiple community partners to develop and operate inclusive recreational programming and policies. From his nearly two decades with the department, Abbott has deep knowledge of city parks programs and its nearly 50 facilities and 1,000 acres of parks, playgrounds and open spaces across the city.

“Chris Abbott is an accomplished exercise, fitness and recreation professional who has dedicated most of his career to Syracuse parks and the people of our city,” said Mayor Walsh. “The City has been fortunate to have him on our team. I look forward to seeing his contributions at Deputy Commissioner of the department.”

Abbott is professionally certified as an Exercise Physiologist, Physical Activity Specialist in Public Health, Strength and Conditioning and Inclusive Recreation. He has a B.A. from State University of New York at Geneseo and a master’s degree from University of Connecticut where he also worked as a fitness and wellness graduate assistant.

Abbott is a board member of the Syracuse/Onondaga County Youth Board and is a member of the Syracuse City School District Wellness Committee. Abbott co-founded the Syrathon Road Race Series which is now in its 15th year of encouraging year-round physical activity. He is also a founding committee member of the Tipperary Hill Shamrock Run.