On August 30, 2024, New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul honored NYPD Det. First Grade Brian P. Simonsen by signing a bill that names a portion of the New York State highway system after our union Delegate, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on February 12, 2019, during the robbery of a cell phone store in Queens. The bill proposing the naming was sponsored by Senator Anthony H. Palumbo of Senate District 1 and Assembly member Jodi Giglio of Assembly 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.”
Governor Hochul issued a press release announcing the honor along with five other pieces of legislation she signed 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.”
State Senator Anthony H. Palumbo said, “As New Yorkers, it is critical to honor and memorialize the service and sacrifice of our men and women in law enforcement. By renaming Halsey Manor Road overpass as the NYPD Detective Brian P. Simonsen Memorial Bridge, we are paying tribute to Detective Simonsen, his family, and our amazing police officers who go above and beyond every day, despite the dangers, to keep our communities safe. This bridge will stand as a testament of our gratitude to Brian and as a tribute to this extraordinary man.”
Assembly member Jodi Giglio said, “Detective Simonsen exemplified the highest standards of courage and dedication. It was only fitting we honor his memory in a way that will be a lasting testament to his contributions to our community. This memorial will not only honor Detective Simonsen’s lasting legacy, but also inspire future generations to appreciate the dedication and sacrifices of all law enforcement officials. I would like to thank my colleagues, including Senator Palumbo, for their support on this endeavor, and I am beyond ecstatic that this legislation was passed.”
Click on the link below to read the Governor’s press release:
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.)
