Benson Bill to Name Mercer County Portion of I-195 after Senator Francis McManimon Clears Full Assembly

(TRENTON)- In honor of the work and public service of former state Senator Francis J. McManimon, the Assembly Monday approved a bill sponsored by Assemblyman Daniel Benson to designate a portion of Interstate Highway 195 in Mercer County in his name.

The bill (A-4299) would designate the portion of Interstate Highway Route 195, extending from milepost 0 to milepost 8.33 on the eastbound side and milepost 8.54 to milepost 0 on the westbound side as “Francis J. McManimon Highway” and erect appropriate signs bearing this designation and dedication.

 “Francis McManimon, or “Franny” as he is known, is widely loved and respected by residents of all political persuasions. The McManimon family has left an indelible imprint on Mercer County and the State of New Jersey.

“A Democratic leader in our State and in the Mercer County region, Franny was and continues to be an inspiration to me as a legislator,” said Benson (D-Mercer, Middlesex), who is chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee.  “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to formally recognize his work.”

Senator McManimon was born in the city of Trenton and was a lifelong Hamilton resident before retiring to Long Beach Island, New Jersey, where he currently resides.  He was active in various community organizations including the Knights of Columbus, the Ancient Order of the Hibernians, National Parks and Recreation Society, and American Legion Post 313.  He also served as a member of the State Juvenile Delinquency Commission, former chairman of the State Board of Recreation Examiners, and Superintendent of Parks and Recreation in the Township of Hamilton.

As a legislator, McManimon served as state assemblyman from 1972 to 1982 and as state senator representing the 14^th District from 1982 to 1992.

The bill was approved 77-0 and will now go to the Senate for further consideration.