Trinity Park Conservancy announced today that Tony Moore has been named President and CEO of the nonprofit organization, which is working to build Harold Simmons Park and transform the Trinity River into the natural gathering place for Dallas. Moore has served as Executive Director and CEO of Gathering Place, Tulsa’s Riverfront Park, since 2016, joining the organization for the final phase of planning and construction of the park. Opened in 2018, Gathering Place has transformed more than 70 acres of riverfront into a dynamic, interactive gathering place for diverse communities across Tulsa and an acclaimed destination nationally. Moore will begin his new role with the Conservancy on April 5th, 2021, while he continues to consult with Gathering Place on a limited basis on special projects.
“After an extensive and thoughtful national search, Tony Moore emerged as an outstanding leader with a unique set of skills and experience in leading major outdoor public venues, particularly his work in making Gathering Place a welcoming and engaging space for all people,” said Deedie Rose, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Trinity Park Conservancy. “We are so thrilled that he will be joining the Trinity Park Conservancy team in making our vision for Harold Simmons Park a reality.”
Moore will take the helm of the Conservancy at a pivotal moment in planning for Harold Simmons Park, which includes more than 200 acres of land in the Trinity River Floodway between the Margaret McDermott Bridge to the south and the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and Ron Kirk Pedestrian Bridge to the north, as well as two Overlooks on the east and west sides of the river above and outside of the levees. The capital campaign to fund the design and construction of the Park has raised more than $110 million, more than halfway to its $200 million goal. In summer 2020, the Conservancy selected architecture firm WEISS/MANFREDI to reimagine the former Dawson State Jail at 106 W Commerce as a gateway to the Park; designs for the building, working in partnership with the community, are now in progress. The Conservancy recently announced plans for the donation of land for the East Overlook, the last piece of land needed for the Overlooks. Groundbreaking on the East Overlook is anticipated for mid-2022. The Conservancy is also in the early stages of planning for programs on both sides of the River that will begin before groundbreaking. The Conservancy is working in close coordination with the City of Dallas and Trinity River Local Government Corporation (LGC) to realize the Park.
“We are so thrilled that he will be joining the Trinity Park Conservancy team in making our vision for Harold Simmons Park a reality.”
Deedie Rose, Board Chair of Trinity Park Conservancy
“Parks are critical infrastructures that significantly impact the quality of life in our communities. We have seen this more than ever over the past year. The Trinity Park Conservancy has a vital civic mission, and Harold Simmons Park will have a lasting impact on this community, from both social and economic perspectives,” said Tony Moore. “I am truly honored to be chosen for this role, and am looking forward to getting to know the Dallas community, working with the Conservancy team and stakeholders across the city to build a thriving park.”
Tony joined Gathering Place two and a half years before the park’s opening, working closely with the construction team to ensure the built environment aligned with the vision, mission and purpose of the park. Gathering Place draws approximately three million visitors annually, with unique programs created to authentically engage the diverse cultures of the community. Gathering Place serves as an inclusive space for all, where the entire community is welcomed and embraced. The free park, designed by landscape architects Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates — also leading the design team for Harold Simmons Park — features playgrounds designed for children of all ages, as well as trails and open green space allowing people to reconnect with nature.
Moore grew up in Jamaica and moved to Florida to join his parents and attend college. In his career spanning over 30 years, Moore has held senior leadership roles with leading brands such as SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Discovery Cove, and Aquatica Water Park. He is a veteran leader in the parks and public attractions industry with prominent experiences in park operations, content development, brand management, marketing, visitor and community engagement. Prior to joining Gathering Place, Moore served as the Chief Operating Officer for Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, where he relaunched their brand and oversaw growth in attendance.
Moore was selected as the Conservancy’s President and CEO following a nationwide search led by a committee of Conservancy Board members, chaired by Ginger Hardage. He will succeed interim President and CEO Walter Elcock, who will resume his role as a member of the Board. Brent Brown also served as President and CEO of the Conservancy from 2016 until 2020. Moore will relocate to Dallas with his family.
