About Our Family Business

“Four generations of craftsmanship, honest communication, and quality workmanship serving New Jersey since 1945”.

A Legacy Built on Hard Work, Family, and Stone

“I came to America because I heard the streets were paved in gold”.

When I got here, I learned three things:

1. The streets were not paved in gold.
2. The streets were not paved at all.
3. I was expected to pave them.”

 – Quote from an Italian immigrant, Ellis Island Museum

This quote, found at the Ellis Island Museum, perfectly captures the spirit that launched our family business.

Our roots trace back to the early 1900s, when the first Cianos passed through Ellis Island from Italy, carrying little more than their tools, determination, and pride in honest labor. They quickly found themselves doing what they excelled at: paving streets, laying stone, and building the infrastructure of America.

What began as a way to earn a living became a family legacy that has lasted nearly a century.

From Then to Now: The Ciano Tradition

The company that would become John Ciano & Son The Paving Authority began humbly, with hand tools, grit, and skill. It was formalized in 1945, when John’s grandfather established the family’s first paving and masonry outfit in New Jersey.

Each generation since has carried the torch, refining techniques, investing in equipment, and expanding capabilities without ever compromising the craftsmanship and integrity that started it all.

Today, John and Rob represent the third and fourth generations of Cianos to take part in the business. Together, they lead crews with the same values handed down from their immigrant ancestors: honor your word, take pride in your work, and always leave the job site better than you found it.