Welcoming our new Executive Director

This morning we had the pleasure of welcoming our new Executive Director, Jon Hoekstra, to the Greenway. Jon brings a unique blend of scientific understanding, strategic problem solving and communication skills. Before joining the Greenway Trust, he served as Chief Scientist for the World Wildlife Fund, and led a variety of strategy and conservation initiatives at The Nature Conservancy.

“I couldn’t be prouder to have been chosen to lead such a highly regarded and impactful organization,” said Jon. “The Greenway is a vital participant in shaping our region’s future, and I’m looking forward to working closely with the Greenway’s diverse coalition of businesses, government agencies, and non-profit partners.”

While Jon enjoys traveling around the world to explore wild places, he always loves coming back home to Seattle and the Greenway landscape that he and his wife have called home for 20 years.

One of the first projects Jon will focus on is working with Congressman Dave Reichert and Senator Maria Cantwell to designate the Greenway as a National Heritage Area.

“This is such an exciting time to be joining the Greenway,” said Hoekstra. “There is a strong synergy and momentum in our community to build a thoughtful, vibrant future for our region. Now is a critical time to secure this impressive legacy, and create the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area.”

Legislation to create the heritage area was introduced in the U.S. Senate and House last Thursday. This designation will ensure that the working farms and forests, parks and open spaces, and recreation opportunities of the Greenway continue to be a strong part of our regional identity and natural heritage. Designation will also help strengthen tourism and outdoor recreation revenue streams, especially in rural communities. Your voice matters – sign the petition.

Reintroduction is an important milestone, but to continue the effort Congress needs to hear from more people like you. Please sign the petition or send a support letter.

Meet Jon

One of Jon’s first endeavors will be joining our 25th Anniversary Trek, where several hundred people will bike and hike across the Greenway from Ellensburg to Seattle. We hope you can join the Snoqualmie Tunnel Bike Ride or Trek Into Seattle Hike to meet Jon and hear more about his vision for the National Heritage Area and the future of the Greenway.