Buffalo Ledger

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C, Elma) and Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera (D, Buffalo) joined family members and friends of Trooper William P. Keane in dedicating the Route 179 bridge over Interstate 90 in the Town of Hamburg in honor of the fallen officer. Trooper Keane, a 26-year veteran of the New York State Police, died on August 23, 2013, while on duty. The bridge will be designated the “Trooper William P. Keane Memorial Bridge” under legislation passed by the Senate and Assembly and signed into law by the governor.

“Trooper Keane served our country in the United States Navy and our state as a proud member of the State Police,” Senator Gallivan said. “The Keane family has a long history of service to the community and designating this bridge in William’s honor is an illustration of his dedication, service, and ultimate sacrifice. The Trooper William P. Keane Memorial Bridge will help ensure his contributions are never forgotten.”

“Trooper William P. Keane’s service to his country and community was indicative of the selflessness with which he lived his life,” Assemblymember Rivera said. “His unwavering commitment to his duty will not soon be forgotten, and I’m proud to have co-sponsored this legislation to rename the Route 179 bridge over Interstate 90 in Hamburg in his honor. It’s one small way in which we, as elected officials, can pay tribute to Trooper Keane’s service and to credit his legacy.”

A South Buffalo native who lived in Hamburg, Keane served in the United States Navy prior to becoming a New York State Trooper. He was known for his dedication and knowledgeable service with Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Laws. He passed away on August 23, 2013, while on duty with the NYS Police at the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance Conference in Salt Lake City, UT.

“After serving his country in the Navy, and 26 years of service with the New York State Police, he deserves to be honored and remembered. A hero remembered never dies,” said Sharon Keane, Trooper Keane’s wife.

The bill to rename the Route 179 bridge in honor of Trooper Keane was sponsored by Senator Gallivan in the Senate and Assemblyman Rivera in the Assembly.