Township of Nutley Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci unveiled the Township’s Area of Hope last week in a ceremony held at the new memorial’s location in Memorial Park I near the center of town.

In dedicating the area to those lost during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Commissioner referred to it being “A Light In Times of Darkness.”

“As we prepare for summer, we all continue to remember those we have lost to Covid-19, to cancer, to natural causes or for any reason,” he said. “I think everyone in town knows or has known someone who has suffered a loss over the past two years. Sometimes it is difficult to understand pain and suffering and we look for a place to reflect on our feelings.”

The Area of Hope includes several benches with memorial plaques dedicated to loved ones who passed during the pandemic, surrounded by beautiful flowers and shrubbery. One prominent bench, dedicated by the Nutley Board of Commissioners, is in the name of beloved Nutley physician Dr. Michael Giuliano. “Dr. Giuliano served our town for over 40 years,” Tucci states. “We are honored to be able to pay a lasting tribute to his memory.”

The Nutley Department of Parks and Recreation created a place of great hope and peace in a world that sometimes seems ravaged by sadness and anger. The concept and in-house design for this project assisted in the quick completion and cost savings of the project. Construction began in 2021 and is now fully completed for the community to enjoy.

“I would like to thank Commissioner Tucci and the Parks Department for designing the Area of Hope,” Nutley Mayor Joseph P. Scarpelli says. “This tranquil space will provide our residents a place to reflect, find peace, and reboot their mind and soul.”

“We have determined that the best course for fulfilling a void and bringing added faith to our community was to create a place of healing and hope for our residents,” added Commissioner Tucci.

Located in Memorial Park I, closest to the Chestnut Street entrance, the Commissioner welcomes all. “It is a peaceful environment for reflection, remembrance and healing,” he says. “We invite everyone to visit our Area of Hope.”