Legislation dedicating potion of State Route 46 to Officer Michael E. Jensen signed into law
September 15, 2025
New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-C-Rome, and Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, D-Marcy, announced today that legislation they sponsored officially dedicating a portion of State Route 46 in honor of fallen Syracuse Police Officer and Rome native Michael E. Jensen has been signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul.
The dedicated portion of State Route 46 will span from Prospect Street in the City of Rome to Dixon Drive in the Town of Western; a solemn, powerful tribute to the young officer who gave his life in service to others.
Officer Jensen, just 29 years old, was killed in the line of duty on April 14, 2024, while responding to a standoff in Salina. Lieutenant Michael Hoosock of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office also lost his life during the tragic incident.
A graduate of Rome Free Academy, Officer Jensen was a standout student and athlete who was admired for his leadership, discipline and humility. He went on to attend Le Moyne College and earned a degree in accounting and an MBA.
"I thank the governor for signing this bill into law," Sen. Griffo said. "By dedicating a portion of State Route 46 in honor of Officer Jensen, we are paying tribute to an exceptional individual and dedicated public servant who exemplified the highest ideals of law enforcement. This designation, fittingly located in the community that raised and meant so much to him, will ensure that Officer Jensen's honorable legacy will endure for generations to come."
“Michael Jensen’s life was a shining example of courage, kindness, and commitment to others,” Assemblywoman Buttenschon said. “He gave so much of himself to protect and serve, and our community is forever better because of him. It is deeply meaningful to know that his name will now live on through this highway, serving as a daily reminder of the sacrifice, love, and strength he brought to everyone around him. I hope this tribute brings his family some comfort, knowing his legacy will never be forgotten.”
The New York State Department of Transportation will install signage along the designated portion of the highway in the coming months.
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