Washington Square Park is welcoming a new and soon to be familiar face to the family: Will Morrison, Deputy Administrator for Washington Square Park.

“In so many ways, Washington Square Park is one of the centers of the NYC-Universe, being involved in the management of a gem like this is a New Yorker’s dream, even if they aren’t a Parkie like I am,” says Will. “Its status as an epitome of public space in NYC has only become more apparent during the pandemic. This is where people want to be, myself included.”

While Will might be a new member of the WSP team, he’s no stranger to the Park, or NYC Parks. A lifelong New Yorker who first experienced the park as a teenager, Will has spent the last 6 years working in the Marketing & Citywide Special Events division of NYC Parks. He served as Senior Manager for the last 3 years overseeing over 100 special events annually, executing citywide marketing campaigns, and so much more. It’s a role that prepares you for the fast-paced and ever-changing environment that is Washington Square Park. And with a degree from Trinity College in both Political Science and Urban Studies, Will feels ready to handle anything the Park can throw his way.

“I’m looking forward to having a permanent impact in a specific space,” says Will. “I’ve loved my time in Marketing & Citywide Special Events, the thrill involved in the execution of an event or a campaign is immediate and tangible. That said, the final step in any event, when the job is done correctly, is a complete return of the space to as it was with no trace of the event’s occurrence. And that’s how it should be with a special event, it shouldn’t permanently impact a space. At WSP, I’m excited to feel the permanence of having a hand in the long term development of the park.” And although this is Will’s first maintenance and operations role, it’s a position he’s become familiar with over the course of his time with NYC Parks. “I’ve worked with dozens of administrators and deputies across the city, and couldn’t help but find myself drawn to the work,” says Will. “A good Administrator is the ultimate master of their Park, they know every facet of the space and take great pride in maintaining these important resources for their Community. That’s what I intend to be.”

It isn’t an easy job, but Will is more than up to the challenge. “I think the biggest hurdle is going to be integrating myself into the fabric of the Park. As the Deputy Administrator my job is to be the point person for the Park. I want everyone to know they can and should come to me with Park issues. I want to know every stakeholder, every Park regular…and that’s a lot of people. But I’m a friendly guy, I don’t think it’ll take me long.” From there, it’s about striking the delicate balance between managing the Park and its needs with the needs of the community, while not quashing the free spirit vibe that is so quintessential to making WSP what it is. 

So as you spend time in Washington Square Parks, keep a look out for this face. You may see him riding up to the Park on a vintage moped, or strolling over from the East Village apartment he shares with his wife, Renée. Give him a wave, say hello (socially distanced, of course!), he can’t wait to meet you.