Anthony Russo (mayor)

Anthony Russo (December 22, 1946 – April 19, 2021) was the 38th mayor of Hoboken, New Jersey, serving from 1993 to 2001, during which he prioritized improving the city's infrastructure and revitalizing its downtown area. He was especially instrumental in securing funding for a new light rail station, which has greatly enhanced transportation options for both residents and visitors. One of Mayor Russo's most significant achievements was the development of the South Waterfront area in Hoboken. With the support of the Hoboken Waterfront Corporation, he collaborated with professional planners to create a South Waterfront Redevelopment Plan that prioritized community concerns about development. This plan aligned with the principles of the Fund for a Better Waterfront and resulted in the conversion of all land and piers along the river into a public park, including the widely popular Pier C Park. Mayor Russo played a crucial role in securing funding from the Port Authority for the park's construction, which features innovative play equipment for children. As a former teacher, Russo worked to ensure that Hoboken's schools provided high-quality education to students.