O’Mara-Palmesano legislation designating the ‘Trooper Nicholas F. Clark Memorial Bridge’ signed into law

Bath, N.Y., July 24—New York Governor Andrew Cuomo today signed into law legislation (S5484/7577) sponsored by Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats) and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) designating a portion of I-86 in Steuben County as the “Trooper Nicholas F. Clark Memorial Bridge.”

Under the new law, the bridges on I-86 where the highway crosses State Route 415 will receive the designation.  That section of the highway is located less than a half mile north of the State Police Barracks (Troop E, Zone 3) in Bath, where Clark was stationed at the time of his death.  A dedication ceremony is being planned.

Clark, a native of Canisteo, was killed in the line of duty last July during a confrontation in the town of Erwin.  He was 29 years old and had been a New York State Trooper for three years.

The O’Mara-Palmesano legislation honors Clark’s memory, and pays tribute to his life and service.

In a joint statement, O’Mara and Palmesano said, "We appreciate Governor Cuomo signing this legislation into law.  Trooper Nicholas Clark was a hero who paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep us safe.  It is our hope that this action will stand as a lasting tribute and testament to his remarkable life and service.  We hope that it will help to express the collective respect of our local community, our entire region, and the State of New York.  We envision the ‘Trooper Nicholas F. Clark Memorial Bridge’ as an enduring honor to Trooper Clark, and a reminder to future generations of his meaningful life.  The naming of this bridge adjacent to the Trooper Barracks where he was stationed is also an important way for us to say thank you to the Clark family for their sacrifice and to let them know that Nick’s service and sacrifice will always be remembered and never forgotten.”

Cuomo said, "Trooper Clark dedicated his life to selflessly serving his community and protecting his neighbors and the family of New York continues to mourn his loss and his sacrifice. This recognition will help ensure his service and bravery is never forgotten."

Clark was born and raised in the Canisteo Valley.  He graduated from Canisteo-Greenwood High School in 2006 and from Alfred University in 2011.  A stellar athlete, he was a New York State high school wrestling champion, and a four-year starter and All-Conference outside linebacker for the Alfred Saxons, where he set school records in tackles and earned a tryout with the Buffalo Bills.

He graduated from the State Police Academy in 2015 and was stationed in Ithaca and Auburn before transferring to the Bath barracks.
 
He is survived by his mother (Theresa), father (Anthony), and brother (Nathan).