Long-serving Branford Parks and Recreation Director Alex Palluzzi Jr. has announced his plans to conclude decades of department leadership with his retirement. Palluzzi’s last day on the job will be Dec. 31, 2024.

A lifelong Branford resident, Palluzzi’s interactions with Branford Parks and Recreation go back to his time as a five-year-old participant; followed by volunteering with the department beginning at the age of nine. Palluzzi first joined the Rec Department staff in 1982 where he served as Assistant Director before being named Director in 1993. Palluzzi is only the second director to have served in the role for the Town of Branford. He is proud to have followed in the footsteps of his former boss and mentor, the late Joe Trapasso, who served as the Town’s Recreation Director for 43 years and retired in 1993.

One piece of advice Palluzzi received from his mentor was to be an active and supportive member of programs and associations dedicated to the field, including the Connecticut Recreation and Parks Association, Inc. (CRPA), of which Palluzzi is a past president. In 2019, Palluzzi was honored by CRPA with its most prestigious recognition, the Distinguished Service Award. Among his many contributions to Branford, Palluzzi is also co-founder of the Branford Sports Hall of Fame.

Palluzzi told Zip06/The Sound his goal over the final four and half months of his time as Parks and Rec Director is to “finish strong.” He said he is extremely confident that his talented team, including several who have been with him over 30 years, will continue to provide excellent service to the Town of the Branford.

Palluzzi gave his formal notice of retirement to the Board of Recreation at its August 14 meeting. In a letter read to the board, Palluzzi said his decision was made with “with a heavy heart.”

“I am so proud of what we have accomplished and built over the past 32 years as your Director of Parks and Recreation,” Palluzzi stated. “Approaching fifty years employment at Branford Parks and Rec, and 43 years full time, respectively, I am forever grateful for the opportunity to serve. We have an exceptional team and would not be what we are today without each and every one of our staff. They are creative, innovative, talented and hardworking. The Town of Branford is blessed to have their service. I am so proud of each individual staffer and know they will do great things in the future to continue the excellent programs, activities, and special events that Branford has come to expect, serving all the residents of Branford, birth to seniors. Thanks to each and every board member for the tremendous support, professionalism, and always keeping the best interests of all ages of participation at the forefront of what we do. I am also blessed to have the full support of the town administration for all these years. Branford always does what is best for Branford!”

Palluzzi concluded his letter by noting, “Most importantly, my gratitude, love and support goes out to my wife Karen, my children Megan and Dylan who allowed me all the time and effort his position deserves. I will truly miss leading the team!”