Gilbert Parks and Recreation Named Finalist for 2026 National Gold Medal Award for Second Consecutive Year

Gilbert, Ariz. - Gilbert Parks and Recreation is proud to announce that the department has been named a finalist for the 2026 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, marking the second consecutive year the department has earned this distinction.

The prestigious award, presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), recognizes agencies across the country that demonstrate outstanding achievements in parks and recreation services.

Gilbert is one of four finalists in Class II, representing communities with populations between 150,001 and 400,000 residents. One agency in each class will be awarded the Grand Plaque, the highest honor in the field, at the NRPA Annual Conference, held September 30th, 2026, in Philadelphia.

Being named a finalist for the second year in a row reflects Gilbert's sustained commitment to creating parks, trails, and recreation spaces that bring the community together. Through data-driven planning, innovative partnerships, and a focus on equitable access, Gilbert Parks and Recreation continues to deliver exceptional experiences to the community.

"We're honored to be recognized again at the national level," said Michael Elliott, Gilbert Parks and Recreation Director. "It motivates us to keep raising the bar and finding new ways to serve the Gilbert community."

The Gold Medal Awards program, founded in 1965, honors communities that demonstrate excellence in long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development, and community engagement.

For more information about Gilbert Parks and Recreation and its programs, visit gilbertaz.gov/parks.