A total of 24 deceased Staten Islanders have been honored through street renaming approvals in 2025, a testament to their significant contributions to the community. Some of these co-namings have already taken place, while official ceremonies for the remainder are scheduled for 2026. The Staten Island Borough has recognized 16 co-namings approved in July, along with an additional eight designated by the City Council in December.
The street renaming program serves as one of the city’s most meaningful ways to commemorate the lives and impacts of residents after their passing. To qualify for a street to be co-named, an individual must have made notable contributions to the community and must have passed away. Each location must also hold historical or personal significance and receive approval from the local community board.
Notable Honorees and Their Contributions
Among the names honored are a mix of community figures, including local heroes, educators, and historical icons.
Dr. Louis G. Gianvito, M.D. Way is located at the intersection of Conyingham Avenue and Castleton Avenue. Dr. Gianvito was a beloved family physician who served four generations of Staten Islanders. He passed away in January 2024 at the age of 96. Retired FDNY Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kerry Kelly, who was both his niece and former student, praised him, stating, “He always made you feel confident that he could fix things and take care of things.”
The street named for Scott “The Plateman” Spina at the intersection of 8th Street and New Dorp Lane honors a Vietnam War veteran and community leader who co-founded “D&S Private Service Bureau.” Spina died in 2024 at 76 years old. His extensive community service included roles as a charter member of the Central Kiwanis Club.
Bill Welsh, recognized as a legendary figure in Staten Island’s track and field history, has his legacy immortalized with Coach Bill Welsh Way at the intersection of Allison Avenue and Colgate Place. Welsh passed away in September 2023 at the age of 94, leaving behind a profound impact on athletes and coaches alike.
Another significant honor is for John M. (Jack) Murphy at the intersection of Kissel Avenue and Henderson Avenue. The former Staten Island Congressman and decorated Korean War veteran died in 2015 at the age of 88. Murphy is remembered for his dedication to public service and his ability to connect with constituents.
Community and Historical Values in Renaming
The renaming of streets not only recognizes individuals but also highlights the cultural and historical significance of the borough. For instance, Isa Boletini Way was dedicated on November 30, symbolically linking two Albanian national heroes, Boletini and Ismail Qemali, who were honored in separate renamings.
In a poignant tribute, Madison Rochelle Alfano Way was named at the intersection of Winant Avenue and Veterans Road East. Madison, who tragically died in a car crash at the age of 18, inspired her family to advocate for improved road safety. Her father, Lou Alfano, expressed the desire to keep her memory alive through the co-naming, stating, “With her being so young and from the neighborhood, we thought it’d be nice that people could see Madison’s name for years and years beyond this tragedy.”
The borough also commemorates the Staten Island NAACP with Staten Island NAACP Way, marking the chapter’s 100th anniversary in 2025. This designation celebrates a century of leadership and advocacy for racial and social justice.
As the community prepares for upcoming ceremonies in 2026, these street renamings serve as a lasting tribute, ensuring that the memories and contributions of these esteemed individuals continue to resonate throughout Staten Island for generations to come.
