BOSTON — Senator Don Humason, (R-Westfield) announced that he and Westfield Navy veteran Richard Trusty testified Thursday before the legislature’s Joint Committee on Transportation on behalf of a bill written by Humason and co-sponsored by Representative John Velis, (D-Westfield).
The legislation, Senate Bill 1839, An Act Designating a Certain Bridge in the City of Westfield as the All Westfield Patriots Bridge, would require the division of highways of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to erect and maintain suitable markers bearing that designation in compliance with the standards of the department. Currently that bridge is known as the Great River Bridge north-bound and spans the Westfield River.
“I am really happy that Dick Trusty could take time out of his busy schedule and travel to the State House with me to offer testimony in support of my bill,” Humason said. “I’ve spoken in front of legislative committees numerous times and was pleased to do so again today on behalf of the Veterans Council, Representative Velis, and the people of Westfield, but Dick Trusty did a terrific job representing the Westfield Veterans Council and explaining how and why they came up with the name All Westfield Patriots Bridge.”
In a letter to Humason and former Senator Mike Knapik, the Westfield Veterans Council wrote, “Westfield has long been known as a very patriotic community, as demonstrated time and again as our citizens come out in great numbers to support patriotic events such as our Memorial Day and Veterans Day parades, Parker Park memorial services and celebrations, and…the Wreaths Across America event at Stanley Park. We on the council would like to see these fine Americans and citizens of Westfield formally recognized for their patriotism and support, and for their commitment to their fellow citizens and what this great country represents. We would very much like to encourage the naming of this new bridge as All Westfield Patriots Bridge in honor of the many patriots who have supported their country and community well and honorably.”
Once the Committee on Transportation releases Senate Bill 1839 with a favorable report it will go to the Senate for debate and a vote and then to the House of Representatives for debate and a vote before finally being laid on the Governor’s desk for his approbation. Senator Humason said he anticipated there would be a bridge naming ceremony and sign unveiling in Westfield at the bridge before the legislative session was done.
Humason is a former member of the Transportation Committee and currently serves on numerous committees including the Veterans and Federal Affairs Committee, Public Service Committee, Education Committee, Bonding and Capital Assets Committee, and Senate Committee on Ways and Means.
Humason represents Agawam, Southwick, Granville, Tolland, Russell, Montgomery, Southampton, Easthampton, Chicopee, Holyoke, and Westfield in the Massachusetts State Senate.
He maintains a District Office for the convenience of his constituents at 64 Noble Street, Westfield, and may be reached at 413-568-1366. His email address is [email protected].
