Congressman Pallone Introduces Legislation to Add Bill Pascrell’s Name to Great Falls National Park

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. has introduced legislation to honor the legacy of the late Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. by renaming two iconic landmarks for him at Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. The bill would redesignate the Great Falls Scenic Overlook Trail Bridge and Overlook Park as the Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. Scenic Overlook Trail Bridge and Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. Overlook Park, respectively, in recognition of Pascrell’s pivotal role in securing the designation of Paterson Great Falls as a national historical park in 2009.

A native of Paterson and a tireless advocate for New Jersey’s Ninth Congressional District, Pascrell was deeply committed to preserving the city’s rich industrial and cultural legacy. His unwavering dedication to safeguarding Paterson’s critical role in America’s industrial revolution—spurred by Alexander Hamilton’s vision of the city as a manufacturing powerhouse—has left an indelible mark on both the city and the nation.

“Adding Congressman Pascrell’s name to this incredible park is not only fitting but essential to recognizing the legacy he built,” said Congressman Frank Pallone. “Without Bill’s leadership, this beautiful park—an emblem of Paterson’s role in America’s industrial rise—might not exist. His tireless work to protect and promote the Great Falls ensures that future generations will understand its significance. This renaming is not just a tribute; it’s an acknowledgment of Bill’s dedication to Paterson and his lifelong commitment to preserving its story.”

"It is an honor to be able to help introduce this bill as my first legislative act as Senator,” said Senator George Helmy. “Congressman Bill Pascrell dedicated his life to serving New Jersey, his district, and his community in Paterson. He deserves to have his legacy enshrined in the very same space he fought to designate as a National Historical Park. His commitment to the people of our great state inspires me to follow in his footsteps and advance impactful legislation that changes lives for the better.”

Pascrell’s legacy extends beyond the falls themselves. In 2014, he introduced the Hinchliffe Stadium Heritage Act, expanding the national park to include the historic stadium, a key site for Negro League baseball and an important cultural landmark. Congressman Pallone’s legislation will permanently enshrine Pascrell’s contributions to protecting these iconic elements of Paterson’s history.

Yesterday, when Congress reconvened for the first time since Pascrell’s passing, Pallone led a moment of silence during the first vote series in recognition of Pascrell’s nearly three decades of public service.