June 10, 2026 – El Paso County is pleased to announce that Janna Tidwell has been selected as the new Executive Director of the El Paso County Parks Department, which oversees more than 7,800 acres of open space, regional parks, trails, and nature centers serving residents across the county.
Tidwell joins El Paso County from Addison Parks and Recreation in Addison, Texas, where she previously served as Director. She holds a Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture, both from Texas Tech University.
With extensive experience leading municipal park systems, recreation services, and community-focused initiatives, Tidwell brings a proven background in team leadership, placemaking, capital improvement and long-range planning, public art, park maintenance, asset management, and policy implementation. She is recognized for her strengths in fiscal management, team leadership, consensus building, and cross-departmental collaboration.
Her experience aligns closely with El Paso County’s Strategic Plan, particularly its commitment to enhancing quality of life, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring responsible stewardship of public spaces.
“Janna brings a strong track record of leadership in parks and recreation, and we are excited to welcome her to El Paso County,” said County Administrator Bret Waters. “Her experience and vision will help us continue to enhance and preserve the county’s parks, trails, and open spaces for our community.”
El Paso County looks forward to the leadership and vision Tidwell will bring to the Parks Department as she begins her role on June 15, 2026.
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