The House Committee on Transportation voted to report House Bill 1853, sending a substitute measure forward that would name a bridge in Smith County the Deputy Hunter D. Reedy Memorial Bridge.

The bill, presented by Delegate Arnold, would rename the bridge that crosses Ad Wolf Road, U.S. Route 11 and State Route 660 where it traverses Interstate 61 in Smith County. Supporters said the naming is intended as a local memorial to Deputy Hunter D. Reedy, who was killed in the line of duty in August.

Delegate Arnold said the bill “seeks to rename the, the bridge in Smith County over Ad Wolf Road and US Route 11 and State Route 660 that traverses Interstate 61, to be designated as the Deputy Hunter d Reedy Memorial Bridge.” He noted the committee had passed House Resolution 493 the prior day honoring Deputy Reedy’s life and service.

Bettina Reedy, the deputy’s wife, joined the committee virtually and thanked members for the “unwavering support and care” shown to the family. She said the bridge “holds so many cherished memories for us,” describing it as close to the home where her husband grew up and the farm where they were married. “To have this bridge carry his name is a gift we will forever hold dear,” she said.

Committee members spoke in support. Delegate Reid offered condolences and called the naming “a small gesture of remembrance” that will serve as a lasting memory for the family and the community. Delegate Austin called it “an appropriate and fitting tribute” for a young officer who died early in his career and asked the committee to rise for a moment of silence prior to the vote.

At the conclusion of remarks, a motion to report the substitute for House Bill 1853 was moved and seconded; the clerk opened and closed the roll and the committee recorded that the bill “passes unanimously.” The transcript does not include a numerical roll-call tally.

The committee chair thanked Mrs. Reedy for joining virtually and members for their work. With the vote complete, the committee had no further business and adjourned.