Just in time for the spring sports season, the city of Athens has hired a new director of its Cemetery, Parks and Recreation Department.

Bert Bradford, who has worked for the city’s Public Works Department for 10 years, was approved as the new parks and rec chief at Monday’s Athen City Council meeting. His first day is tentatively set for April 1.

When asked why he was interested in the position, Bradford said it represented upward movement and a good opportunity.

“It’s a natural thing to want to try something new,” he said. “I think I checked a lot of boxes (for the position).”

Bradford, who has a degree in exercise science from Auburn University, also possesses landscaping, construction and maintenance experience.

He will face a sort of trial by fire by assuming the position this time of year. Opening day, arguably one of the busiest for the parks and rec department, is set for Saturday, April 6.

“I think I’m just going to be a spectator that day,” Bradford said with a laugh. “It’s will be an eyes wide open kind of thing.”

He plans to rely on existing staff to ease him into the role of director, simply because they know the ropes. As the father of twin girls who play parks and rec sports, he was already exposed to how the department was run. His wife also coached youth athletics.

“We’ve always had a great experience, and this will be their fourth or fifth season,” he said. “(Parks and rec employees) have done a fantastic job. They know what they’re doing as far as preparation and details.”

Bradford said he is most looking forward to the opening of the new $16 million recreation center now under construction. It will feature three gyms and an outdoor all-purpose field, among other things, and is expected to be completed next year.

“It will change the entire landscape (of the department),” he said. “Whereas sports are seasonal right now, that will stay busy through the winter months.”

Some council members were positive in their comments about Bradford, whose duties have also included reporting code enforcement violations. Councilman Chris Seibert said he has known Bradford and his family for seven years, and “thinks a lot of him.”

Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks said the services offered by the cemetery, parks and rec department affect residents of all ages. He said Bradford would do fine in the role.

“It’s some big shoes to fill, but you know that,” he told Bradford during Monday’s meeting.

The city decided to look internally when filling the position left open by the untimely death of Ben Wiley in November. Wiley worked in the department for 28 years, including 20 as director.

Bradford didn’t work closely with Wiley because they were not in the same department, but he said he played sports against Wiley and had known him for many years.

When asked how he felt about taking over for Wiley, Bradford said he is anxious to get his feet wet. He plans to implement his own ideas over time, but for now, he wants to listen to the in-house experts.

“There may be some supervisors there right now who want a voice,” he said. “They are the ones who are there every day, and I think it’s a smart move for me to hear from them.”