As the Director of Vibrant Community and Neighborhoods for the City of Arvada, Ryan Stevenson brings more than two decades of experience to a role that is as dynamic as the city itself. With over 100 parks, two golf courses, a nature center, and a robust calendar of events under his oversight, Stevenson’s leadership is rooted in a core belief: community comes first.
“The people of Arvada are just incredible,” Stevenson says. “I’ve moved around a lot in my career, but there’s something about this place that makes me want to put down roots. Arvada really has it all—urban, suburban, and rural energy all in one city. That’s rare. It’s a community that feels both welcoming and forward-thinking, which makes my work here even more meaningful."
Stevenson’s role isn’t just about keeping lawns green or playgrounds safe. His vision centers around two key principles: public safety and sustainability. From planting and replanting the city’s forest to reduce heat impact, to emphasizing natural shading and zero-waste events, his team works behind the scenes to keep Arvada’s outdoor spaces both functional and environmentally conscious.
“We’re always asking: how do we stay sustainable and connected?” he explains. “Whether it’s reducing paper waste at city events or designing parks with eco-conscious materials, we think about the long-term health of our community.”
Stevenson’s strategic thinking extends beyond sustainability. With a background in both urban and suburban park systems, and specialties in urban forestry and parks accreditation, he’s focused on using Arvada’s funding wisely. “We have an aging park system. Every single line item in the budget matters,” he says. “Our goal is to ensure every dollar is spent in a way that strengthens the community.”
Communication is another pillar of Stevenson’s approach. He works closely with Arvada’s Parks Advisory Commission, homeowners’ associations, and neighborhood leaders to keep a pulse on what residents need. “We really value those community voices,” he says. “We show up to meetings, we take calls, we make sure people feel heard. Our website also plays a huge role in keeping folks informed.”
One of the highlights on the horizon is Gold Strike Park, a revitalization project slated for Arvada’s southeast side. “That part of town hasn’t seen a lot of newness in recent years,” Stevenson says. “This is a chance to bring fresh energy and accessibility to that area.”
Yet it’s not just about building new—it’s also about breathing life back into what already exists. “Redevelopment of some of our older parks is a big priority for me as well,” he adds.
What makes all of this possible, Stevenson insists, is his team. “I have biologists, foresters, natural resource specialists, finance experts—all these incredibly talented people who help keep everything running,” he says. “I wouldn’t even mention them if it weren’t true. They’re what drew me to this job in the first place.”
Since stepping into his role in October, Stevenson has almost experienced a full cycle of Arvada’s seasonal events. “There’s a rhythm to it all. You learn quickly that in the first six months; you adjust what needs adjusting. Then you start putting your own intentional stamp on things.”
At the top of his to-do list: reviewing and updating Arvada’s Park Master Plan. “That plan is like a bible for any park system,” he says. “We’ll be taking a close look at it later this year to make sure it reflects where we’re headed.”
For Stevenson, every new trail, nature walk, and neighborhood gathering is a reminder of why he does what he does. “I’m grateful every day,” he says. “This job is about more than parks. It’s about people—and the connections we build when we care about where we live.”
“I’ve moved around alot in my career, but there’s something about Arvada that makes me want to put down roots."