East Bay Regional Park District General Manager
Receives East Bay Vision Award

Oakland, CA – On January 8, 2010, the East Bay Economic Development Alliance (East Bay EDA) honored Pat O’Brien, general manager of the East Bay Regional Park District, with a 2009 East Bay Vision Award.

The East Bay EDA, a public/private partnership dedicated to establishing the East Bay as a world-recognized location to grow business and create jobs, presents Vision Awards to exceptional individuals or organizations that have greatly advanced the economic vitality and quality of life in the Bay Area.  O’Brien, who has served as the Park District’s general manager for the past 21 years, was honored for his leadership and management skills.  He was cited for being adept at forging relationships with various local, state, county, city and non-profit and educational agencies to expand the District, all while minimizing the financial, and maximizing the positive, impact upon taxpayers.

During O’Brien’s tenure, the East Bay Regional Park District has grown by 30 percent, doubling the size of 12 parks and increasing the number of parks from 48 to 65 plus adding 100 miles of new trails, as well as achieving and surpassing the 100,000 acre milestone.

The East Bay EDA stated that the East Bay Regional Parks are one of the defining assets of the East Bay, making this region one of the most attractive areas throughout the nation in which to live and do business.  The East Bay EDA also honored the Park District for celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.

O’Brien received his award on January 8, 2010 at the East Bay EDA Annual Legislative Reception at California State University East Bay.  Joe Callahan, president of Callahan Property Company also was honored with a Vision Award.