The City Council of Staten Island has approved the co-naming of streets in honor of eight individuals and a century-old organization, set to take place in 2026. This decision, made on December 18, highlights the significant contributions of these residents to their community and ensures their legacies will be remembered. A total of 77 co-namings across the city received approval, marking a substantial effort to acknowledge the impact of noteworthy citizens after their passing.
Frank Morano, a Republican council member representing the South Shore, emphasized the importance of the upcoming co-namings during a recent meeting. He stated that such recognitions serve as reminders of the value of public service. The process for co-naming streets requires approval from both local communities and the City Council. To qualify for a co-naming, individuals must have made considerable contributions to their community and must have passed away, with the location chosen holding historical or personal significance.
Honorees and Their Contributions
The streets set to be renamed 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 was dedicated to preserving the neighborhood’s historic character amid urban development and volunteered for local beautification projects. She passed away in October 2023 at the age of 58.
The NAACP Staten Island Way, located at the intersection of Henderson Avenue and Broadway, will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Staten Island chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The organization has played a pivotal role in advocating for racial and social justice for a century.
Paul Casali Way will be established at the intersection of Morningstar Road and Hooker Place in memory of Paul Walter Casali. A prominent political activist in Staten Island, Casali was known for his humor and compassion. He passed away suddenly in October at the age of 51, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to family and community.
Another honoree, SSG William T. Johnson, will have William T. Johnson Way named after him at the intersection of Carteret Street and Amboy Road Avenue. Morano shared Johnson’s heroic story, noting his service as a New York City police officer and his participation in World War II, where he was a radio operator and aerial gunner on a B24 bomber. Johnson’s aircraft was shot down in 1944, and he is buried at Normandy, having been awarded a Purple Heart.
Dr. Melvin Koplow Way will be named at the intersection of Huguenot Avenue and Sinclair Avenue. Dr. Koplow, a beloved pediatrician, served generations of families in Staten Island until his death in March 2024 at the age of 79. Tributes from former colleagues highlight his dedication and kindness in caring for sick children.
Another honoree, Michael W. Daly, will be remembered with Firefighter Michael W. Daly Way at the intersection of Cloverdale Avenue and Oakdale Street. Daly, who passed away in November 2023 at age 56 due to a 9/11-related illness, had dedicated his life to serving as a firefighter with the FDNY, joining in 1999. He was actively involved in charitable causes even while battling cancer.
Finally, Dominick Dellegrazie Way will be established at the intersection of Westfield Avenue and Bloomingdale Road. Dellegrazie, who died in May at age 74, had a distinguished career as a New York City police officer and later worked within the Department of Consumer Affairs. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to run a successful business for over three decades.
Chris Walsh Way will be named at the intersection of Hylan Boulevard and Rockaway Street in honor of Chris Walsh. Walsh, a dedicated sports organizer, passed away in August at the age of 64 after a battle with cancer. His commitment to youth and adult sports in Staten Island was evident through his decades of service, ensuring that local fields were safe and welcoming.
The upcoming co-namings reflect the City Council’s recognition of the profound impact these individuals had on their community. This initiative not only honors their memories but also inspires future generations to contribute positively to society.
