Senator Lanza Joins NYC Parks To Memorialize Former NYPD Officer Benny Marciante With Naming Dedication In Tappen Park

“By dedicating Marciante Square, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation is honoring a good and honorable man who died too young. Police Officer Marciante’s work in this community was highly regarded and well chronicled. He kept our community safe and left an indelible impression on those he touched. Though this dedication should have happened many years ago, when it was first announced, I am grateful to Commissioner Mitchell Silver and Borough Commissioner Lynda Ricciardone, who have helped to make this happen today."          Senator Lanza

NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP, joined the family of NYPD Officer Benny Marciante for a dedication and naming ceremony in honor of  Officer Marciante. Officials gathered to name the square in Tappen Park “Marciante Square” in honor of the native New Yorker and public servant who was assigned to the 120th precinct and Tappen Park, and who sadly passed away in 2000.

“Quality public service is what keeps this big, beautiful city moving. Through the efforts of officers like Benny Marciante we are able to enjoy our public spaces with confidence that we are safe and protected," said Commissioner Silver. “Officer Marciante’s name and legacy will now continue to live on in the community and park he so selflessly served.”

“Officer Benny Marciante not only kept us safe, but changed Staten Island for the better every day,” said Staten Island Borough President Oddo. “It is great to see the Square at Tappen Park being named in honor of Officer Marciante, who heard the call to public service and served graciously, so his name can live on and we may continue to honor his commitment.”

"I am thrilled that we are honoring the life of one of Staten Island's finest, Benny Marciante. Although I never had the privilege of meeting officer Marciante, his honor and memory will forever be recognized at one of the North Shore's finest parks,” said New York State Senator Diane Savino.

By dedicating Marciante Square, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation is honoring a good and honorable man who died too young,” said New York State Senator Andrew Lanza. “Police Officer Marciante’s work in this community was highly regarded and well chronicled. He kept our community safe and left an indelible impression on those he touched. Though this dedication should have happened many years ago, when it was first announced, I am grateful to Commissioner Mitchell Silver and Borough Commissioner Lynda Ricciardone, who have helped to make this happen today."

“Tappen Park is a centerpiece of the Stapleton neighborhood, and Officer Marciante, during his short but accomplished career, worked to ensure that people of all ages could enjoy this beautiful space,” said Council Member Rose. “His dedication to the community, especially the young people who played here after school, is deeply appreciated. With this dedication, his public service will be remembered by future generations who come to Tappen Park.

Born in Brooklyn, NY on October 15, 1972, Benny Marciante was a proud New Yorker. When he was five years old, he and his family moved to Staten Island, where he spent the rest of his life serving his community. Officer Marciante spent three years working for Richmond County Ambulance and nearly seven years as an NYPD officer.

In 1999, Officer Marciante married Amy Randazzo, his longtime girlfriend. However, Officer Marciante’s life was cut short when he suffered a heart attack and passed away just one year later. Prior to his death, he had just been promoted to sergeant in the NYPD.

Located on Staten Island’s North Shore, Tappen Park is among the oldest public parks in the borough. Named after World War I veteran James Tappen, the park is home to lush greenery, and now Marciante Square.