It’s official! A section of a Southern California freeway has been renamed after the first African American President of the United States.
The new “President Barack H. Obama Highway” signage went up on Thursday on State Route 134, covering a stretch that goes from State Route 2 in Glendale, through the Eagle Rock section of Los Angeles, to Interstate 210 in Pasadena.
Before moving to New York as transfer student to Columbia University, Obama lived in Pasadena and attended Occidental College from 1979-1981.
“The President has often mentioned his fond memories of living in Pasadena and attending Occidental College, so it was very appropriate to name the portion of the freeway he traveled after him,” California State Senator Anthony J. Portantino said in a statement on Thursday. “Our community came together to make this happen. It is an honor to be in a position to have helped facilitate this wonderful symbol of our collective respect for the grace and dignity embodied by our 44th President.
Portantino added: “So many generous people can share in the accomplishment of this appropriate recognition of an inspiring, positive leader. I am very grateful to Caltrans for its rapid response to our community’s generosity by installing the signs before Christmas. What a great way to bring in 2019. I hope to have a formal unveiling and program in the New Year to properly commemorate the President and our new freeway.”
Looks like Christmas came early for our forever President.