On April 15, the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) held a dedication ceremony in honor of former State Senator Anthony Scardino Jr., renaming its beloved overlook trail in DeKorte Park in Lyndhurst to the Anthony Scardino Jr. Overlook Trail.
The public outdoor event in the park, attended by over 100 people, honored Mr. Scardino’s vital role in the environmental transformation of the Meadowlands and his more than 70 years of public service. Scardino was joined by a host of family, friends, colleagues and admirers who praised his tremendous efforts in revitalizing a now thriving region.
“Anthony Scardino is the epitome of public service and a treasure to the Meadowlands and the NJSEA,” said Nicholas Mammano, president and CEO of the NJSEA. “The Overlook Trail is a truly fitting space to recognize his extraordinary contributions to DeKorte Park and the Meadowlands. He has had a tremendous impact on the region and on all of us who have the benefit of knowing and learning from him.”
“There is no one more deserving of this honor than Anthony Scardino,” said NJSEA Chairman John Ballantyne. “His resolute and unyielding determination in realizing a foundational, positive change on the region has improved the lives of Meadowlands residents and the people of the entire State of New Jersey. It is why I refer to him as a Meadowlands Icon.”
After serving his country in the United States Air Force, Scardino embarked on a remarkable public service career. He began public life as a member of the Lyndhurst Board of Education. He has since served as the town’s mayor, a state senator, executive director of the authority now known as the NJSEA, and longtime member of the NJSEA Board of Commissioners. Scardino served on the Board of the NJSEA since 2009, retiring from his role on December 31, 2024.
Scardino spent 18 prolific years leading the agency’s daily operations. During his tenure, Scardino oversaw the creation of DeKorte Park and the construction of the Meadowlands Environment Center — achievements especially dear to his heart.
“Anthony Scardino has left a permanent mark on his beloved Meadowlands, and it is only fitting to his legacy that his name now welcomes visitors to the Overlook trail,” said State Senator Paul A. Sarlo. “With over 70 years of distinguished public service, Anthony Scardino truly exemplifies what it means to be a statesman. He has always led with dignity, humility and an unwavering moral compass, qualities that reflect his character and the deep respect he has earned through his lifetime of public service.”
“Anthony Scardino has long been a champion and driving force behind the transformation of the Meadowlands,” said Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco. “His leadership turned a landscape once defined by landfills into a regional model for environmental stewardship, and this trail is a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy.”
“I am deeply honored and humbled by this recognition,” said Anthony Scardino Jr. “To see my name on a trail in DeKorte Park — a place that symbolizes the incredible transformation of the Meadowlands — is truly meaningful. This region has been such an important part of my life, and I am proud to have played a role in its growth and renewal. I share this honor with the many dedicated individuals I’ve worked alongside over the years who made this progress possible.”
The NJSEA invites visitors to experience the Anthony Scardino Jr. Overlook Trail at DeKorte Park. The beautiful sign marking the trail entrance is visible to your right after entering the park.
