Congressman Pallone Leads Effort to Rename Great Falls Park After Late Congressman Bill Pascrell

LONG BRANCH, NJ - Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) has announced a series of legislative efforts to preserve and honor the legacy of his late friend and colleague, Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. Pallone will introduce bills to rename the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park and the grants awarded under Pascrell’s Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) program in his memory.

“Renaming the Falls in Congressman Pascrell's honor would serve as a lasting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to uplifting Paterson,” the letter said. "The Congressman, like the Falls, was a force of nature, a catalyst for improvement, and a symbol of endurance. Both stand as pillars of Paterson, representing unbreakable spirit."

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As Congress prepares to reconvene for the first time since Pascrell’s passing , Pallone will lead a moment of silence during the opening vote series to commemorate the 14-term Congressman’s profound impact on public service.

“Bill Pascrell’s leadership in securing the designation of Paterson Great Falls as a National Historical Park and his advocacy for traumatic brain injury survivors will forever be a part of his legacy,” Pallone said. “Bill was tireless in his dedication to the people of Paterson, and his work has left an indelible mark on the nation. We’re going to continue fighting for the causes Bill cared about, from protecting our national parks to ensuring every brain injury survivor gets the care they deserve.”

Pascrell, a lifelong advocate for national parks, was instrumental in securing the Great Falls' designation as a National Historical Park in 2009, underscoring its role in America’s industrial history. His efforts also led to the expansion of the park’s boundaries to include the historic Hinchliffe Stadium in 2014, recognizing its significance to Negro League baseball.

In addition to his work on national parks, Pascrell was a staunch advocate for traumatic brain injury awareness and treatment. He founded the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force in 2001 and was key in establishing the Traumatic Brain Injury Act in 1996, which provided crucial federal funding for research and treatment. Paterson

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Paterson's Animal Control Officer John DeCando, who described Pascrell as embodying the spirit of the Great Falls also urged federal officials to honor the lifelong Paterson residents, and pubic servant, with the renaming. DeCando highlighted Pascrell’s deep connection to Paterson, recalling his community involvement and unwavering dedication.

DeCando’s letter praises Pascrell for his relentless advocacy and personal connection to the city, drawing parallels between the Congressman’s impact and the enduring strength of the Great Falls. He also noted Pascrell’s humble beginnings and tireless work for Paterson, emphasizing that renaming the Falls in Pascrell’s honor would be a fitting tribute to his legacy.

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