“Several members of the public have asked about a new garden and benches that are located at 16^th Street Park.  This is a tribute to the Covid-19 victims, health care workers, essential workers, and volunteers.  As we continue to struggle with this pandemic, I was approached by AJ Chiaravalloti about an Eagle Scout Project.  AJ thought it was important for us to quickly recognize the sacrifices of so many Bayonne residents,” stated Mayor Jimmy Davis.

AJ Chiaravalloti, a Junior at Saint Peter’s Prep and member of Bayonne Troop 25, added, “Everyone in our community has been impacted by the pandemic.  My idea was to create a space recognizing what a difficult year 2020 has been.  The idea was to create an attractive garden and benches for contemplation and enjoyment.”

“It is amazing how quickly this came together.  AJ was very focused and was able to recruit scouts and friends to lend a hand,” commented Davis.

“This project was only possible because of the support of the city – especially Mayor Davis and Mr. Cotter.  The Public Works department was a great help.  I also need to thank Mr. Picerno.  He really helped start the project and donated the stones used at the site.  Councilman LaPelusa helped design the garden.  We also received several donations – especially a major gift from Mr. Joel Bergstein of Lincoln Equities to cover the cost of the project.  In the end, I was really excited about the project and the volunteers from Troop 25 who made it possible,” added AJ. “Working on this project and everyone coming together, has really confirmed for me how great a community Bayonne is.”

AJ is the son of Assemblyman Nicholas and Nancy Chiaravalloti.  “Obviously, we are very proud of AJ.  He has always been a dedicated young man and he has wanted to be an Eagle Scout for a long time – ever since John Hughes and Larry Sangi recruited him into the Pack when he was in 1^st grade,” added Assemblyman Chiaravalloti.