‘John F. McArdle Memorial Highway’ Closer to Fruition

John McArdle was an NYPD lieutenant from Carmel.

Legislation dedicating a portion of Route 301 in Carmel after the late John McArdle has officially passed the Assembly and State Senate. The bill, sponsored by Assemblyman Matt Slater, R-Yorktown, and Sen. Peter Harckham, D-Peekskill, designates the stretch between Belden Road and Gipsy Trail Road as the “John F. McArdle Memorial Highway.”

“My family and I are thrilled that John’s legacy will be continued by the renaming of this road in his honor,” said his wife, Barbara McArdle. “John was loved by all, and this special recognition of his life and service to our community is something we are very grateful for.”

McArdle, who lived in Carmel, served as a New York City Police Department lieutenant and emergency services unit leader. A veteran of the Bronx Task Force, Tactical Apprehension Team and Federal Emergency Management Agency’s New York Task Force 1, he returned to duty Sept. 11, 2001, and was appointed on-scene coordinator for ESU’s search, rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero.

His heroism and leadership earned him the NYPD Honor Legion Medal of Valor, among numerous other commendations.

In retirement, McArdle continued to serve his fellow officers and first responders through extensive volunteer work, including his role as vice president of the Stephen P. Driscoll Memorial Lodge 704 and his involvement in HEART 9/11 and the Cops 4 Cops program.

“John F. McArdle exemplified courage and selflessness throughout his life, both on- and off-duty,” said Slater. “We are honored to name this stretch of road in memory of a decorated law enforcement officer, a 9/11 hero, and a devoted family man. John was most proud of his wife Barbara, their three daughters, and his grandson Chase. This dedication is a small but lasting tribute to a man who gave so much to others.”

Harckham called McArdle a pillar of the Carmel community whose lifelong commitment to service was evident in all he did.

“From his distinguished career with the NYPD to his tireless advocacy for 9/11 responders and retired first responders, he brought professionalism and deep compassion to his every effort,” said Harckham.

“I have known John and his family for a long time,” added Kent Highway Superintendent Richard Othmer. “He was the definition of an All-American and gave his life for his country, commanding at Ground Zero. The entire McArdle clan reflects those same values, and it’s comforting to know John’s legacy will live on through his children.”