Murray City’s Parks and Recreation Department has been recognized as the 2026 Outstanding Department by the Utah Recreation and Parks Association, an honor city leaders say reflects years of steady investment, community support and a commitment to high-quality public services.

“Murray City’s recognition for the 2026 Outstanding Department award from URPA was awarded by a combination of factors including facility expansion, strong community support and consistently high-quality programming and maintenance,” Murray Chief Administrative Officer Kim Sorenson, who previously served as the city’s Parks and Recreation director, said. 

Among the most visible changes in recent years has been the expansion of cultural and recreational facilities, including the Murray Theater, Armory and Murray Museum. Sorenson said these additions demonstrate a broader commitment to enhancing community life while reflecting support from both residents and elected officials.

“The addition of facilities such as the Theater, Armory and Murray Museum demonstrated a commitment to expanding cultural and recreational opportunities for the public,” he said.

Beyond new construction, Sorenson emphasized the breadth and quality of programming offered throughout the city as a defining strength. Murray’s recreation system, he noted, is designed to serve residents of all ages and backgrounds.

“Murray stands out across the state for the amount and quality of its programming, ensuring that residents of all ages, income levels and interests have meaningful ways to engage,” he said.

While new amenities often draw attention, Sorenson said the day-to-day work of maintaining parks, trails and facilities is equally critical—and largely unseen.

“What many residents may not realize is that this is a seven-day-a-week operation, requiring ongoing attention, repairs and maintenance,” he said. “Staff work continuously to ensure that parks, trails and recreation facilities remain clean, safe and welcoming.”

He added that proactive maintenance plays a key role in preserving public assets and preventing more costly repairs in the future.

The award, Sorenson said, reflects long-term growth rather than any single initiative. He credited both past and present city leadership, as well as department staff, for building a system that has evolved alongside community needs.

“The award acknowledges the long-term dedication to developing high-quality programs and enhancing facilities to better serve Murray residents,” he said. “Credit is due to both current and former elected officials, as well as past and present employees.”

Rather than highlighting a single program or event, Sorenson pointed to the department’s overall structure and culture as what sets Murray apart. The system encompasses multiple divisions, including parks, recreation, cultural arts, the cemetery, golf course, senior center and theater.

“It’s that culture of pride, care and dedication that really sets Murray apart,” he said.

Community input also plays a central role in shaping the department’s direction. Sorenson said the city relies on both long-term planning tools—such as the 2020 Parks and Recreation Master Plan—and ongoing public feedback to guide decisions.

“The department consistently surveys users and residents to ensure that their priorities align with the services and opportunities being offered,” he said.

The recognition also comes as the city reflects on the legacy of longtime Parks and Recreation leader Doug Hill, who was recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Sorenson described Hill as a “visionary” whose influence is still visible throughout the city, from major facilities to community traditions.

Looking ahead, Sorenson said Murray is working to balance maintaining existing assets while planning for future growth. One tool supporting that effort is a parks impact fee tied to new development, which helps fund land acquisition and expanded recreation opportunities.

“Murray has worked towards a thoughtful balance between maintaining its existing parks and planning for future growth by staying both proactive and forward focused,” he said.

Future plans include continued investment in programming and a broader vision for a more vibrant downtown.

“The goal is to create a space where people want to gather, recreate and spend time, enhancing both community connection and overall quality of life,” Sorenson said.