Portion of highway named in memory of two Troopers killed in the line of duty
PBA, 2004-06-21

Gov. George E. Pataki has signed into law a measure that designates a portion of State Route 28 in Ulster County in honor of two New York State Troopers killed in the line of duty in 2000. The State Troopers PBA applauds the memorial to Troopers T. Michael Kelly and Kenneth A. Poormon. These two Troopers dedicated themselves to serving and protecting the citizens of the State of New York, and this memorial highway designation will serve as a fitting tribute to their highway safety efforts.

Below is a press release issued by the Governor’s office about the memorial designation.

GOVERNOR: PORTION OF STATE ROUTE 28 TO BE NAMED FOR TROOPERS

Designation Honors Memory of Troopers T. Michael Kelly and Kenneth Poormon

Governor George E. Pataki today announced that he has signed legislation designating a portion of State Route 28 in Ulster County as the "New York State Troopers T. Michael Kelly and Kenneth A. Poormon Memorial Highway." The ceremonial designation will affect a one mile portion of State Route 28 in the Town of Hurley between State Route 375 and Maverick Road.

The Governor announced his approval of the legislation on the same day he addressed the 189th graduation ceremony of the New York State Police Academy at the Empire State Plaza in Albany.

"Troopers Kelly and Poormon served with the utmost honor and distinction with the New York State Police, and we will never forget the terrible tragedy that claimed their lives," Governor Pataki said. "This designation will honor the memories of these two fine individuals and their dedicated service to the people of New York as New York State Troopers."

Senator John Bonacic said, "These two dedicated police officers were trying to make a hazardous roadway safer for their fellow New Yorkers and paid with their lives. Though we will never be able to compensate for their loss, we must remember their selfless contribution."

Assemblymember Kevin Cahill said, "With the help and support of family members, friends and local public officials, this legislation will honor the lives and memories of these dedicated public servants. Tributes of this nature are reserved for individuals who demonstrate unparalleled devotion to their profession and community and in this instance it is most fitting. The names of these fallen heroes will always be remembered."

Troopers Kelly and Poormon were killed in the line of duty on this stretch of Route 28 in May 2000 when their police cruiser was struck by a tractor-trailer. The legislation, sponsored by Senator John Bonacic and Assemblyman Kevin Cahill and endorsed by the Hurley Town Board and Ulster County Legislature, seeks to honor and memorialize the lives of these troopers. The Department of Transportation will provide appropriate signage noting the ceremonial designation.

New York State Police Superintendent Wayne E. Bennett said, "This ceremonial designation, to honor the memory of these two fine Troopers who gave their lives in the line of duty, is a lasting legacy to their dedicated service to the citizens of New York State."

State Department of Transportation Commissioner Joseph H. Boardman said, "We are proud to honor the lives of these fine gentlemen with this designation, which will serve as a reminder of the dedication and sacrifice exhibited by the men and women who serve in the New York State Police."