Fuschillo Bill to Rename Bridge After Fallen Nassau Police Officer Approved by Senate

             Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) today announced that legislation he sponsors to rename a bridge after fallen Nassau County Police Officer Michael Califano has been approved by the New York State Senate. 

            “Officer Califano was a devoted police officer who put himself in harm’s way every day to protect our safety. His death was a tragic reminder of the dangers that police officers face each day while performing their duties. Renaming this bridge in Officer Califano’s honor would help ensure that his sacrifice and legacy of service are never forgotten,” said Senator Fuschillo, Chairman of the Senate’s Transportation Committee. 

            Officer Califano, a twelve year veteran of the Nassau County Police Department, died tragically in the line of duty on February 4, 2011 while performing a routine traffic stop. He was killed when his patrol car, which was stopped on the shoulder of the Long Island Expressway with its lights flashing, was hit from behind by a flat bed truck. The driver of the truck was allegedly asleep at the wheel. Officer Califano, a 44 year old resident of Wantagh, leaves behind a wife and three young children.  

            The legislation (S5234A) would rename the Glen Cove Road bridge overpass which crosses over the Long Island Expressway in Old Westbury as the “Police Officer Michael J. Califano Memorial Bridge.” The bridge is near the site where Officer Califano was killed. 

            “The members of the Nassau County PBA vowed never to forget our bother Police Officer Michael Califano's ultimate sacrifice he made that tragic night, and never forget his dedicated service to our department. Renaming this bridge would further honor this commitment. On behalf of all the members of the Nassau County Police Department, we would like to thank Senator Fuschillo for sponsoring this legislation in the state senate and for his efforts to see that it becomes enacted into law," said Peter Paterson, First Vice President of the Nassau County PBA.           

            The legislation has also been approved by the State Assembly and will be sent to Governor Cuomo for consideration. 

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