Urging the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename that portion of U.S. Highway 31 from Smith Valley Road to County Line Road the "State Trooper Aaron Smith Memorial Highway".
Impact
If enacted, HCR0002 would formally change the designation of a portion of a state highway, reflecting the community's respect and recognition of Aaron Smith’s service. Renaming infrastructure after public servants is a common practice that serves both as a tribute and a reminder of their sacrifices. This renaming illustrates a community’s connection to law enforcement and emphasizes the significance of public safety personnel in everyday life.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 2 (HCR0002) urges the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename a segment of U.S. Highway 31, between Smith Valley Road and County Line Road, to honor State Trooper Aaron Smith. Trooper Smith was tragically killed in the line of duty on June 28, 2023, while assisting in a vehicle pursuit. The resolution seeks to recognize his commitment to public service, which included roles in both the U.S. Army National Guard and the Indiana State Police, where he earned multiple awards for his bravery and dedication to the community.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR0002 appears overwhelmingly positive, with no recorded dissent during committee votes or the initial readings. The bipartisan support in the House and favorable reports from committees indicate a collective appreciation for Trooper Smith's legacy. Legislators and community members likely share a common respect for the dedication and service of local law enforcement, enhancing the resolution's acceptance.
Contention
There appears to be little to no contention regarding the provisions of HCR0002, as evidenced by its unanimous committee approval and positive voting history. This resolution symbolizes unity within the legislative body, prioritizing the commemoration of a fallen trooper whose life represented commitment to public duty. Nevertheless, any discussions on similar honors in the future may consider the appropriateness of such tributes and the criteria for naming public spaces after individuals.
Urging the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename that portion of U.S. Highway 52 between Davis Road and German Church Road the "Officer Breann Leath Memorial Mile".
Urging INDOT to rename that portion of I-69 between the County Road 11A Exit and State Road 8, near mile marker 326, the "Master Trooper James R. Bailey Memorial Highway.
Urging the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename that portion of State Road 5 from State Road 218 to State Road 22 the "Ralph Duckwall Memorial Highway".
Urging the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename that portion of State Road 32 from County Road 900 West to State Road 1 the "Kyle Osgood Memorial Mile".
Urging the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename the mile stretch of I-74 southeast of the Acton Road exit the "Deputy John Durm Memorial Mile".
Urging the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename the bridge on U.S. Highway 27 over the Wabash River between Berne and Geneva as the "Spc. Nicholas A. Taylor Memorial Bridge".
Urging the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename the bridge on State Road 29 over Wildcat Creek in Burlington, Indiana, as the "Donald L. Mills Memorial Bridge".
Urging the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename the overpass on County Road 800 North over I-65 in Jackson County the "Lt. Randy Davis Memorial Mile".