Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Central Ward Council Member Gayle Chaneyfield-Jenkins will host a ceremony to re-name the corner of Dey Street and Central Avenue in the City’s Central Ward today, Wednesday, September 21, at 1:30 p.m. to honor Division of Traffic and Signals Manager Jack Nata, who recently passed away. The location is adjacent to the Division’s complex.

Mr. Nata was a 27-year municipal employee at the time of his death, who rose through the Department of Engineering ranks to become Manager of Traffic and Signals. He was responsible for maintenance of the City’s streets, signs, and traffic lights, enhancing safety with energy-effective traffic lights, speed bumps, and medians. Newark has 566 traffic light-controlled intersections within its borders – there are 565 separate municipalities in the State of New Jersey.

In addition, Mr. Nata, a staunch advocate for pedestrian and motorist safety, streetscaped many City arteries to enhance their safety and appearance, including Broad Street, Ferry Street, and the “Four Corners” intersection at Broad and Market Streets. He also created bicycle lanes and pedestrian safety awareness programs.

At the time of Mr. Nata’ death, Mayor Baraka wrote in his condolence letter to the Nata family: “Jack knew his trade, he understood his job, he did it well, and like many civil servants, nobody really knew his name. But his works will live on for generations, in physical form, on Newark’s streets, and I can’t think of a better legacy or honor for Jack Nata.”