Larkin and Skoufis Announce Renaming of Road for Community Leader

Senator Bill Larkin (R-C-I, 39th District) and Assemblyman James Skoufis (D-Woodbury) announced that Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed legislation to rename a portion of Route 208 to John Spear Way, in honor of John Spear, a longtime local resident and community leader. 

“John Spear was a deeply beloved and respected citizen of the Village of Washingtonville, and was a person who dedicated himself to enriching the lives of local residents,” said Senator Larkin. “Renaming the road in his honor is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated so much of his life to the betterment of his community and neighbors.”

“Renaming this section of highway for John Spear is fitting for such a pillar of the community,” said Assemblyman Skoufis.  “He spent his life caring for and delivering results for Washingtonville whether through CYO basketball teaching kids, or on the planning board supporting the village, John was always there when one needed him.  His life should serve as a role model for generations to come.”

“I would like to thank Senator Larkin and Assemblyman Skoufis for their work here,” said Mayor Heintz. “John’s life deserves to be celebrated here as a memorial to all the lives he touched for the better.”

"It's gratifying to know that people remember him,” Mary Spear said. “Time often leads to people forgetting those who came before, but it's so nice to have a permanent memorial to him.”                                              

The legislation re-names the portions of Route 208 (north and south), also known as South Street and Goshen Avenue to John Spear Way.  The street’s renaming is a village tradition, one done to recognize and honor those who have dedicated their lives to improving the community.

Mr. Spear, who passed away last year, served the Village of Washingtonville in many different capacities.  He was a member of the Planning Board for 50 years, owner and editor of the Orange County Post, founder of the Washingtonville CYO basketball program and was a pillar in his local church community.