Section of Route 45 Receives an Honorable New Name

By M. C. Millman

Five months ago, Senator Elijah Reichlin-Melnick, Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski, and Assemblyman Michael Lawler introduced legislation to rename a section of route 45 in honor of firefighter Jared Lloyd. He perished battling a massive blaze at the Evergreen Home for Adults in Spring Valley. 

Lloyd, a member of Columbian Fire Engine Co. No. 1, was among about 125 firefighters who responded to the fire. Thanks to the volunteer firefighters, including Lloyd, 112 residents were rescued.  

Wednesday, a 1.5-mile span of Route 45 from New Hempstead to East Eckerson Road was officially renamed Firefighter Jared Lloyd Memorial Highway to honor Lloyd’s heroism. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the renaming bill into law, with new roadway signs expected to be unveiled later this year.