(Johnson City, NY) – A section of highway in the Village of Johnson City will be re-named in honor of a Johnson City Police Officer who lost his life in the line duty.Earlier this Summer, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill passed by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo & Senator Fred Akshar (A9751/S8608) that designates NYS Highway Route 17C, in Johnson City, as the “Patrolman David ‘DW’ Smith Memorial Highway.”

In 2014, Police Officer David ‘DW’ Smith’s watch ended when he lost his life in the line of duty responding to a disturbance at a local business. He served the Johnson City Police Department with distinction for 18 1/2 years. In 2002, Officer Smith was awarded a Certificate of Valor for rescuing a young boy from a burning apartment building. A formal unveiling ceremony will be held in the Fall.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said, “It was an honor to work with Senator Akshar to rename this stretch of roadway for Police Officer Smith. This will be a reminder to everyone how much we value his service to our community and how his sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

Senator Fred Akshar said "Officer DW Smith made the ultimate sacrifice for his community, and every day we can help honor his memory by doing our part to make our community the best it can be. I'm proud to partner with Assemblywoman Lupardo on this dedication to help keep his memory, his service and his sacrifice alive in our community for generations to come."