Meet our Board of Commissioners
Established in 1927, the Cincinnati Recreation Commission (CRC) provides recreational, cultural, leisure and educational activities for Cincinnatians of all ages and abilities. CRC improves the quality of life in Cincinnati, makes city neighborhoods more attractive to prospective residents and is vital for Cincinnati’s continuing growth and competitiveness. CRC believes that enhancing people's personal health and wellness strengthens and enriches the lives of our citizens and builds a spirit of community in our city.
Each year, millions of people visit CRC’s recreational facilities and enjoy many CRC programs at indoor recreation centers and outdoor play areas. CRC offers athletic leagues, dedicated programs for seniors, youth and aquatics, therapeutic and inclusive programs for persons with disabilities, before- and after-school programs, summer day camps, special public events and volunteer opportunities.
Citywide recreation centers add to the variety of CRC aquatic facilities, 2,500+ acres of CRC outdoor athletic and playground facilities. In addition, tennis attractions and premiere public golf courses make Cincinnati Recreation Commission a top notch organization. CRC embraces the arts with classes and events. CRC even commissions public artwork for the city to enjoy!
Cincinnati is one of just a few cities in the United States with separate and independently operated parks and recreation facilities. Most major US cities combine park and recreation facilities under one department.
Cincinnati Recreation Commission is an award-winning organization. Cincinnati Recreation Commission has won two (2) National Recreation and Park Association Gold Medal awards and certifications from the parks and recreation industry.
In addition to Cincinnati Recreation Commission’s national recognition, CRC has also been recognized statewide with multiple Ohio Parks and Recreation Association awards for CRC outdoor spaces, parks and programs.
CRC is the first large urban recreation department in the State of Ohio to receive accreditation by the national Commission on Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). CAPRA accreditation is a self-assessment and peer review process that evaluates a public agency’s operation of recreation areas, facilities, programs and services based on a set of national standards for quality operations.
CRC’s Sawyer Point is located along the Ohio River and provides venues, landscapes and memories for visitors who have enjoyed this outstanding riverfront facility. This mile-long linear park attracts millions of spectators to events such as Kids' Fest, Riverfest and the All-American Birthday Party. Along with a unique design, Sawyer Point features a performance pavilion, concessions, outdoor tennis and sand volleyball courts, a completely accessible playground and other attractions. Sawyer Point is the permanent home of the Showboat Majestic, a 75-year old showboat and the last original floating theater.