Ridley Creek State Park Gets New Manager

MEDIA, PA — Ridley Creek State Park Complex has a new manager.

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced Alexa Rose is the new manager at the complex.

Rose — the former assistant manager at Marsh Creek State Park in Chester County — will lead operations at the historic 2,606-acre Ridley Creek State Park.

"Growing up, my family spent many weekends in Pennsylvania state parks, and they’re some of my most cherished memories," Rose said. "As my family grows, I look forward to making new memories and affording that opportunity to park visitors at the Ridley Creek Complex. My family is so excited for this new opportunity."

The park is a popular public wedding venue encompassing remains of an historic 18th century village; working Colonial-style farm; and stables and pastures reflecting a rich equestrian history.

Rose will also oversee operations at White Clay Creek Preserve in lower Chester County. Because of its outstanding scenic, wildlife, recreational and cultural value, White Clay Creek has been designated by Congress as a National Wild and Scenic River.

Rose succeeds Phillip Schmidt, who was named manager at Tyler State Park, Bucks County.

Rose began her Bureau of State Parks career as a ranger in 2013 at Caledonia State Park,
Franklin County.

She entered the manager trainee program in 2015 at the bureau’s Region 4, based in Bucks County, and was assigned Marsh Creek assistant park manager in 2017.

A native of Shippensburg, Franklin County, Rose, 30, holds a bachelor’s degree in wildlife conservation from Juniata College.

She and husband Shawn are the parents of 17-month-old daughter, Catherine.

"The Ridley Creek State Park Complex is a unique operation with lots of interesting aspects," she said. "I’m looking forward to moving to the area and getting my feet wet with all that there is to offer."