City and state officials joined the family of Trooper Carlos M. Negron on Monday, May 26, to cut the ribbon on a new public playground named in his honor.
“This park is dedicated a true hometown hero—Trooper Carlos M. Negron—whose life and service remind us of the ultimate sacrifice made in the name of public safety,” said Mayor Reed Gusciora.
“This playground will not only serve our children and families as a vibrant place to gather and enjoy themselves, but it will also stand as a lasting tribute to a life lived with honor and selflessness,” Gusciora said.
Negron, a U.S. Marine and New Jersey State Trooper, was fatally shot in the line of duty on May 7, 1984, while assisting a disabled vehicle on the New Jersey Turnpike.
He was 29 years old and had served just over two years with the State Police. Negron, born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, had made Trenton his home.
The $177,103 project features a large ADA-compliant play structure, inclusive ground-level equipment such as a Zoom Twist and Dennis Rocker, and will soon include grills and picnic tables. Construction began in late 2024 and was completed in January 2025.
Gusciora was joined at the ribbon-cutting ceremony by Interim Parks and Recreation Director Paul Harris, Trenton City Council members, members of the Negron family, and representatives of the New Jersey State Police, including Colonel Patrick Callahan.
“Today we ensure that the children, families, and neighbors that play, gather or just pass through will forever know his name and story,” said City Council President Yazminelly Gonzalez.
She added: “Let this park serve as a living memory to a local hero, a proud Puerto Rican American, a Marine, a State Trooper, and a man who gave everything for the safety of others.”
Councilwoman At-Large Crystal Feliciano called the event “very touching” and noted the presence of Negron’s 99-year-old mother. “My thoughts and prayers go out to all his family and friends who knew and loved him,” she said.
Harris praised the transformation as an example of the city’s commitment to community development.
“Transforming this once-empty lot into the Carlos Negron Memorial Park has been a meaningful project for the City of Trenton,” Harris said. “We are proud to deliver projects that improve the quality of life for all and bring our neighborhoods closer together.”
Colonel Callahan echoed those sentiments, honoring Negron’s bravery and selflessness.
“Trooper Carlos Negron cared about others more than himself,” Callahan said. “May every life touched by this space remember the legacy of Trooper Negron — a true hero who gave everything for the good of others.”
As the city continues to invest in public spaces, officials said residents can expect upcoming improvements at Rutherford Avenue Park, Cooper Park, and other city landmarks.
A family member touches the portrait of Trooper Carlos M. Negron during the dedication of the newly constructed Carlos Negron Memorial Park in Trenton on May 27, 2025.,
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