‘John F. McArdle Memorial Hywy’ Honors a Lifetime of Service

Family of John McArdle, a former NYPD lieutenant from Carmel who oversaw rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero, in front of the sign that honors him. McArdle died in 2023.

By Holly Crocco

Members of the law enforcement community, as well as friends and family of John McArle, joined lawmakers, elected officials, and other advocates May 2 along Route 301 in Carmel/Kent for the unveiling of a sign designating a portion of the roadway between Belden Road and Gipsy Trail Road as the “John F. McArdle Memorial Highway.”

McArdle, a former lieutenant in the New York Police Department, oversaw the rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks as part of the NYPD’s Emergency Services Unit. 

The recent honor recognizes McArdle’s lifelong commitment to public service and the Carmel community, and follows the passage and signing of legislation last year sponsored by Assemblyman Matt Slater and State Sen. Pete Harckham.

“John McArdle was someone who truly lived a life of service,” said Slater. “This designation is a small but meaningful way to honor his legacy and ensure his impact is never forgotten.”

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

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

Barbara McArdle, widow of John, said she hopes the sign inspires others.

“The naming of this highway in honor of John lifts my spirits to know that the sacrifices of 9/11 will not be forgotten,” she said. “Hopefully, young people who pass the sign and learn about John will be inspired to emulate John’s commitment to public service and also make a difference in the lives of many.”

McArdle served as an NYPD 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. 

Kent Town Supervisor Jaime McGlasson said she couldn’t be happier to see the road named after McArdle. “It’s a small but lasting way to honor his legacy, ensuring that every mile traveled carries a reminder of the impact he made on our community,” she said.

Assemblyman Kevin Byrne called the tribute “a fitting and lasting honor for a man who gave so much to others.”

“I’ve been fortunate to know members of the McArdle family since growing up together in Carmel schools, and my interactions with John came most often during his retirement years, when he continued his steadfast advocacy and volunteer support for first responders and the broader law enforcement community,” he said. “A special thank you and tribute to Barbara and the entire McArdle family for carrying forward his legacy with strength and grace.”