Portion of Route 301 Renamed After John McArdle

John McArdle, a former NYPD lieutenant from Carmel who oversaw rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero, died in 2023

Legislation dedicating a section of Route 301 in Carmel in honor of the late John K. McArdle has been signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul.

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. 

State Sen. Pete Harckham, D-Peekskill, and Assemblymember Matt Slater, R-Yorktown, introduced bill S.7362A/A. 7864 earlier this year, and it passed in the State Legislature in June – designating the portion of Route 301 between Belden Road and Gipsy Trail Road as the “John F. McArdle Memorial Highway.”

Now enacted, the new law is effective immediately. A spring dedication is planned.

“John McArdle was a pillar of the Carmel community and his lifelong commitment to public service was evident in all he did,” said Harckham. “From his distinguished career with the NYPD to his tireless advocacy for 9/11 responders and retired first responders, he brought professionalism, tireless energy, and deep compassion to his every effort.”

“Having been on-scene on Ground Zero, John McArdle’s bill being signed into law during this time of remembrance for all 9/11 heroes and those we lost is a deeply fitting tribute,” added Slater. “John was selfless, endlessly compassionate, and strong in his values – an example we should all strive to uphold.”

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. 

“I am so excited that the legislation for John’s roadway dedication and memorial sign is being signed by the governor,” said Barbara McArdle, widow of John McArdle, after hearing of the governor’s intent to sign the bill last month.

“This news comes during a difficult week, and it lifts my spirits to know that the sacrifices of 9/11 will not be forgotten,” she said. “Next spring seems so far off, but the excitement for dedicating John’s sign will hopefully make the winter seem gentler and faster. Also, since I have another grandchild expected next month, they will be there to join us in the celebration for Papa.”

Carmel Town Supervisor Mike Cazzari said McArdle dedicated his life to public service and protecting others.

“After 9/11, he came out of retirement to help oversee the rescue efforts at Ground Zero, and over the years he spearheaded efforts to help prepare New York for future emergencies,” said Cazzari. “Honoring his memory and legacy with this highway dedication is certainly warranted, and I appreciate the efforts of our state legislators and Gov. Hochul in making this happen.”

Kent Highway Superintendent Richard Othmer said the timing of this bill signing is both appropriate and soul-stirring, with the McArdle family receiving the news just before the anniversary of 9/11, “almost as if John himself gave his blessing from above. Having known John and his family for many years, I can say without hesitation that his devotion to others will never be forgotten,” he said.