Capalbo: Great Staff is One of Plainfield Park District's Biggest Strengths

Plainfield Park District Executive Director Carlo Capalbo. Credit: Plainfield Park District.

It’s a new era at the Plainfield Park District, and on Sept. 24, community leaders were invited to a reception to officially welcome new Executive Director Carlo Capalbo.

Just two weeks into the job, Capalbo said he’s focusing on getting to know the community and the staff at his new district.

“Right now I’m trying to hit the ground running,” said Capalbo, who spent seven years at the helm of the Worth Park District.

A Romeoville resident, Capalbo said Plainfield’s family oriented feeling helped drive him to the job.

“The whole area is such a region of growth potential,” he added. “That’s what the exciting part is.”

He said coming from Worth, a four-by-four-square-mile district with about 10 parks is a big change. Covering more than 40 square miles, Plainfield serves a population of more than 100,000 people.

“I’m getting acclimated with all the development we have going on,” Capalbo said. Over the next six months, he said he’ll work with staff to identify a vision for the park district as a whole as the district’s comprehensive plan is updated.

“They’re fantastic,” he said of staff, who have helped ease the transition as Capalbo takes over where Interim Director Richard Grodsky left off. “One of the strengths of this park district has been the staff.”

Residents are invited to meet Capalbo prior to the Wednesday, Oct. 8 board meeting. Refreshments will be served and residents can greet Capalbo from 5 to 5:45 p.m at the Heritage Professional Center, 24023 W. Lockport St.