August 11, 2021
A familiar face will lead the Apex Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Department with the appointment of long-time employee, Craig Setzer, as Director.
Selected as the town’s Employee of the Year in 2018, Setzer has been with Apex since 2005, and has held supervisory positions in both athletics and operations. Before coming to Apex, he served as the Athletic Programming and Community Center Supervisor at the City of Durham’s Parks and Recreation Department.
Setzer earned a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management from Appalachian State University, and graduated from programs at both the National Recreation and Park Association Director School and the Park Maintenance Management School.
"I am really excited about this opportunity to continue the legacy of outstanding offerings and facilities from the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources department,” Setzer said. “It’s a rewarding time to lead this team of employees as we continue to bring new and exciting recreational opportunities for residents to stay and play right here in Apex.”
The department currently manages 12 town-owned parks, 16.6 miles of greenway, and over 617 acres of developed, undeveloped, and open-space parkland.
Up first on Setzer’s list is the upcoming opening of a new Senior Center that will offer space for arts, crafts, pottery, and additional gathering spaces. Pleasant Park, opening in 2022, will provide additional athletic fields, Apex’s first ever splash area, and passive recreational opportunities.
Greenway construction is also a high priority, with the expansion of Beaver Creek and Middle Creek greenways, and the Apex West greenway connection to the American Tobacco Trail.
“Craig has dedicated much of his career to serving the residents of Apex through high-quality athletic programs and well-maintained parks,” said Town Manager Katy Crosby. “He is experienced, and prepared to lead the Town through the next phase of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources as we kick off the update of the department’s Master Plan this fall and has proven this during his time serving as interim. I am looking forward to continuing to work with Craig.”
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