On August 30, 2024, Gov. Hochul honored Det. First Grade Brian Simonsen by signing a bill that names a portion of the New York State highway system after our union Delegate. The bill proposing the naming was sponsored by NYS Senator Anthony H. Palumbo (District 1) and Assembly member Jodi Giglio (District 2). This bill will designate the section of the Long Island expressway at the Halsey Manor Road overpass in the town of Brookhaven in Suffolk County as the “NYPD Detective Brian P. Simonsen Memorial Bridge.” Gov. Hochul issued a press release announcing the honor along with five other pieces of legislation that authorize recognition for other historical figures and public servants. The Governor said that these memorials represent, “… stories of courage and self-sacrifice. By honoring their memories, we forever pay tribute to their lives and to the spirit which defines the best of our state.” The DEA thanks sponsors Palumbo and Giglio.

The formal dedication will take place on October 29, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. (If attending, please arrive at the staging area at 10:40 a.m. at 740 Wading River Road, Manorville, NY 11949, across from Bruno Farms, for a Highway escort to the unveiling site.)