Designates bridge over Crosswicks Creek on Interstate Highway Route 295 North as "Benjamin Moore and the 693rd Sappers Company Memorial Highway."
The bill outlines that state or public funds shall not be utilized for the production, purchase, or erection of signs bearing the specified designation. Instead, the Commissioner of Transportation is empowered to accept gifts, grants, or other financial contributions from private sources to cover these costs. This provision emphasizes the reliance on private funding for commemorative efforts, ensuring that the honor towards Specialist Moore and his unit comes without the burden on taxpayers.
Assembly Bill A5334 aims to designate the bridge over Crosswicks Creek on Interstate Highway Route 295 North as the 'Benjamin Moore and the 693rd Sappers Company Memorial Highway.' This designation is intended to honor Army Specialist Benjamin Moore, a New Jersey native who lost his life while serving in Afghanistan in 2011. The bill serves as a tribute not only to Moore’s bravery and sacrifice but also aims to recognize the contributions of the 693rd Sappers Company, with whom he served.
While there was no explicit contention noted in the discussions surrounding the bill, the stipulation concerning the financing of the signage may lead to scrutiny regarding the sourcing of such funds. The requirement for private financing for memorials can evoke different reactions within the community about the appropriateness of such arrangements, potentially raising discussions about values in honoring veterans and whether public funds should play a role in commemorative projects.