VAN DREW/MADDEN BILL TO DESIGNATE PORTION OF ROUTE 9 AS 'POLICE UNITY TOUR MEMORIAL HIGHWAY' IS NOW LAW

TRENTON – A measure sponsored by Senators Jeff Van Drew and Fred H. Madden, which designates Route 9 in Cape May County as “Police Unity Tour Memorial Highway”, has been signed into law by Governor Corzine.

            Started in 1997, the Police Unity Tour was created to increase the awareness of the National Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial and Museum in Washington, D.C.  The tour consists of a bike ride to the site of the memorial, followed by a candlelight vigil to remember those who died in the line of duty.  The Police Unity Tour has chapters throughout the country, including two in New Jersey, which raise awareness and funding for the national memorial.

            “Public awareness is key to increasing funding for the D.C. memorial,” said Senator Van Drew, D-Cape May.  “By changing the name of the section of Route 9 that runs through Cape May County, local residents will take notice, and I’m hoping they will feel compelled to donate to such a worthwhile cause.  Our law enforcement officers risk their lives so that we can safely live ours, and the memorial is one way we can thank them for their selfless service.”

            “As a former State Trooper, I understand the meaning behind this memorial,” said Senator Madden, D-Camden and Gloucester.  “I’ve lost friends and colleagues in the line of duty, and some of their names are written on the walls of this very memorial.  Renaming this stretch of road will not only help to raise funds, it will also serve as a reminder of the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make each day to protect our safety.”

            The senators’ bill, S-632, directs the State Department of Transportation to erect signs along the highway, noting the name change. The Police Unity Tour will cover the cost of the signs.

            For more information on the Police Unity Tour, visit: http://www.policeunitytour.com/.