Remarks for Secretary Lyndo Tippett
Louis Sewell Jr. Bridge Dedication Ceremony
Jacksonville, NC
Monday, February 28, 2005
Introduction
Good morning.
Louis, I bet you didn't expect all this for your 70th birthday, did you?
An event like this certainly raises the stakes for your next birthday.
What will we do for you next year?
But in all seriousness, this is a dedication well-deserved when we look at everything Louis has done to enhance this community and improve life for its citizens.
And much of that work has been to improve transportation, not only in Jacksonville, but throughout eastern North Carolina.
U.S. 17 and this bypass have long been projects that are near and dear to Louis' heart, and much of the progress made along this important corridor can be directly attributed to his ongoing efforts.
That's why it's a fitting tribute to name the bridge over the New River on the U.S. 17 Jacksonville Bypass in his honor.
Louis is a true veteran of the N.C. Board of Transportation, serving under both Gov. Hunt and Gov. Easley.
Those of us who have had the privilege of serving alongside him know firsthand how dedicated Louis is to improving quality of life for citizens in this area.
In addition to the four-laning of U.S. 17, his dedication has resulted in important improvements like the extension of Western Boulevard, the widening of N.C. 24 from Morehead City to Interstate 40 and the paving, widening and resurfacing of countless roads throughout Onslow County.
The first section of the Jacksonville Bypass from U.S. 258/N.C. 24 around Jacksonville and back to N.C. 24 is scheduled to open in June, and it will provide area citizens with an unparalleled level of mobility and convenience.
This is also when the bridge will officially open to traffic.
With its beautiful views of both Jacksonville and the New River as it flows out to sea, this is the perfect bridge to name in honor of a man so committed to this city.
And now, in recognition of Louis' service to the state, I'd like to present him with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine on behalf of Gov. Mike Easley.
Louis, if you would please come forward.
This award is North Carolina's highest honor.
As you can see from the signature of the Governor, it is not given lightly.
On behalf of the citizens of this state, I'll read the official toast.
"Here's to the land of the long leaf pine,
The summer land where the sun doth shine,
Where the weak grow strong and the strong grow great,
Here's to "down home," the Old North State!"
Louis, I'd also like to present you with a replica sign to commemorate this special occasion.
Please join me in giving Louis a round of applause for everything he's done to serve his community and state.
Louis, thank you again for all your outstanding efforts.
At this time, I'd like to invite Louis to say a few words.
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