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Governor Murphy Joins New Jersey State Police to Dedicate Highway in Honor of State Trooper Marc K. Castellano

08/10/2018

HAMILTON – Governor Phil Murphy today joined Acting New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan and NJSP troopers for a ceremony designating a portion of Interstate Highway Route 195 in Howell as “State Trooper Marc K. Castellano Memorial Highway.” Castellano, who lived in Howell, died in 2010 in the line of duty after a driver struck him while passing on the motorway. 

“I am honored to have been able to participate in the designation of a portion of Route 195 in Trooper Marc Castellano’s honor,” said Governor Murphy. “This commemoration ensures that Trooper Castellano’s bravery and dedication to the people of New Jersey will never be forgotten. I would also be remiss if I did not mention Marc’s mother Donna Setaro, whose advocacy to promote the ‘Move Over Law’ has been invaluable in keeping our first responders safe on the road.”

New Jersey’s Move Over law requires motorists to move over when approaching police or emergency response vehicles that are stopped on the side of the road. The law, enacted in 2009, also requires motorists to slow down as they pass first responders, tow trucks, and highway maintenance vehicles if they cannot safely shift to another lane to create space for them

"Today's ceremony symbolizes the respect and admiration that Marc earned from his family and friends, and is a small token of appreciation for his sacrifice," said Colonel Patrick Callahan of the New Jersey State Police. "The Interstate 195 designation as the 'State Trooper Marc K. Castellano Memorial Highway' is a fitting tribute to Marc in the town that he called home."

On July 26, Governor Murphy signed A3749 into law, declaring that the portion of Route 195 in Howell would be dedicated to Trooper Castellano. The bill was sponsored by Assemblymen Sean Kean and Edward Thomson and Senator Robert Singer.

"Trooper Marc Castellano was a dedicated public servant who gave his life while trying to keep the people of New Jersey safe," said Senator Singer. "The signing of this new law to rename a portion of I-195 in his honor will ensure that his sacrifice is never forgotten."

“Renaming this stretch of roadway in Howell after State Trooper Marc Castellano is a way to remember this brave, young, police officer who died while protecting and serving his community. This tribute honors the life and memory of a hometown hero,” said Assemblyman Kean.

“From this day forward, motorists travelling Route 195 will be reminded of the tremendous sacrifice made by Trooper Castellano and his family,” said Assemblyman Thomson.  “Designating this section of roadway in honor of Trooper Castellano is a fitting tribute to his selfless devotion to public safety.”