Staten Island is set to honor eight notable individuals and one historic organization with new street names in 2026. This initiative follows the City Council’s approval of a bill on December 18, 2023, which allows for the co-naming of streets as a way to recognize the significant contributions made by residents who have passed away. A total of 77 street and public place co-namings across the city received the green light, reflecting the city’s commitment to acknowledging local legacies.
Councilmember Frank Morano, representing the South Shore, emphasized the importance of these co-namings during a recent Council meeting. He remarked that such moments serve as reminders of the value of public service, even during lengthy legislative sessions. The process for co-naming a street requires community support and formal approval from the City Council. The honorees must have made substantial contributions to their communities and have a location of significance associated with their names.
Honorees and Their Contributions
The streets set to be co-named in 2026 include:
Sarah Power Way at the intersection of St. Marks Place and Wall Street will honor Sarah Power, an architect and active member of the St. George Civic Association. Power, who passed away in October 2023 at the age of 58, was dedicated to preserving her neighborhood’s historic character amidst ongoing development and participated in local beautification efforts.
The Staten Island NAACP Way will commemorate the NAACP Staten Island Chapter’s 100th anniversary at the intersection of Henderson Avenue and Broadway. This organization has played a vital role in advocating for racial and social justice since its founding a century ago.
Paul Casali Way, located at the intersection of Morningstar Road and Hooker Place, will be named after Paul Walter Casali, a passionate political activist who died unexpectedly in October 2023 at the age of 51. Friends described him as a dedicated community member who embodied humor, generosity, and compassion.
SSG William T. Johnson Way will honor Staff Sergeant William T. Johnson at the intersection of Carteret Street and Amboy Road. Johnson, a WWII veteran and former New York City police officer, lost his life during a mission over Europe. He was buried at Normandy and awarded a Purple Heart. Morano highlighted Johnson’s legacy, stating, “He deserves to be remembered far beyond our neighborhood.”
Another honoree is Dr. Melvin Koplow Way, which will be placed at the intersection of Huguenot Avenue and Sinclair Avenue. Dr. Koplow, a beloved pediatrician who cared for generations of families, passed away in March 2024 at the age of 79. His colleagues praised his unwavering dedication to his patients, emphasizing his kindness and commitment to their well-being.
Michael W. Daly Way will be located at the intersection of Cloverdale Avenue and Oakdale Street, honoring Michael W. Daly, a retired firefighter who succumbed to a 9/11-related illness in November 2023. Daly, who was 56 at the time of his passing, joined the FDNY in 1999 and made significant contributions during the rescue efforts following the September 11 attacks.
The intersection of Westfield Avenue and Bloomingdale Road will be named Dominick Dellegrazie Way in memory of Dominick Dellegrazie, who passed away in May 2024 at the age of 74. Dellegrazie had a distinguished career as a New York City police officer and was the president of the Staten Island’s Fraternal Order of Police lodge #117.
Finally, Chris Walsh Way will be established at the intersection of Hylan Boulevard and Rockaway Street in honor of Chris Walsh, a dedicated sports league organizer who passed away in August 2023 at the age of 64. Morano noted Walsh’s quiet yet impactful commitment to youth and adult sports in the borough, highlighting his efforts to create safe and dignified playing spaces for the community.
Through these co-namings, Staten Island not only celebrates its local heroes but also reinforces the importance of community service and the lasting impact individuals can have on their neighborhoods.
