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Senator Christopher J. Ryan (NY-50) and Assembly Minority Leader William A. Barclay (AD-120) today joined local officials, members of law enforcement, and the family of Lieutenant Donald R. Hill to unveil the new signs designating a portion of State Route 104 in the City of Oswego as the “Lieutenant Donald R. Hill Memorial Highway.”
The signs have been installed at two locations along Route 104 — one eastbound at the southeast corner of NY 104 and Jim Shampine Drive, and the other westbound at the northwest corner of NY 104 and Lowe’s driveway entrance — officially marking the stretch of highway dedicated through legislation (S.6265A/A.7930A) sponsored by Senator Ryan and Assembly Minority Leader Barclay and signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul in September.
Senator Ryan said, “Lt. Hill’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. He was a devoted husband, father, and public servant who exemplified the best of Oswego. These signs will stand as a permanent reminder of his courage and commitment to protecting others. I’m deeply honored to help ensure that Lt. Hill’s legacy continues to be recognized by everyone who travels this highway.”
Assembly Minority Leader Barclay said, “It is an incredible honor to recognize Lieutenant Donald R. Hill’s life of service through this highway designation. Lt. Hill embodied the very best of what it means to serve—with courage, compassion and an unwavering commitment to his community. By naming this stretch of Route 104 in his honor, we not only celebrate his legacy of service but also honor the strength and sacrifice of his family, who have carried his memory with grace for more than two decades. May this roadway stand as a lasting tribute to his life and to the loved ones who continue to keep his spirit alive.”
Oswego Mayor Robert Corradino said, “Lieutenant Donald R. Hill dedicated his life to serving and protecting the people of Oswego, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. This memorial highway is a lasting tribute to a life of serving and protecting the people of Oswego. On behalf of the City of Oswego, and the Common Council, I want to thank Senator Ryan for championing this legislation and Governor Hochul for signing it into law, ensuring that Lt. Hill’s legacy of service, bravery, and commitment to our community will continue to inspire generations to come.
Oswego Police Chief Phil Cady said, “We are deeply grateful for the legislation memorializing the section of roadway where Lt. Hill tragically lost his life. Lt. Hill is remembered not only for his service but for his devotion as a father, husband, coworker, and friend. His service and legacy will never be forgotten.”
Pam Hill, Lt. Hill’s wife said, “Don always treated people with respect, no matter what the situation was. He was definitely a people person, always making them feel at ease, and knowing how to get them what they needed. He loved to work the beat, interacting with people on the street, especially during the farmer's markets. He was a positive role model to all the officers who worked with him. He loved his family, his church, and his community, and worked hard to keep them all safe and well. His children grew up learning how to treat people right because of him.”
Lieutenant Donald R. Hill, born July 6, 1952, served more than two decades with the Oswego Police Department. On November 11, 1995, while directing traffic on Route 104 East, Lt. Hill was struck by a vehicle and later died from his injuries. He was 43 years old and nearing retirement after over 20 years of dedicated service to his community. The designation of “Lieutenant Donald R. Hill Memorial Highway” is ceremonial and does not alter the official name of the highway.
