‘Tom Jensen,’ ‘Veterans Suicide’ highways now official

LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. (WTVQ) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet alerts motorists to look for newly installed honorary roadside signs recognizing community accomplishments and individuals who have improved the lives of fellow Kentuckians.

The Department of Highways District 11 office installed signs in Laurel and Whitley counties displaying ‘Tom Jensen Highway’ on KY 3006 in Laurel County and the ‘Veterans Suicide Memorial Mile’ on I-75 in Whitley County.

“Ceremonially naming roads and bridges is a popular tradition Kentuckians take pride in to recognize people and milestones that bring respect to the Commonwealth,” said Secretary Jim Gray.

New signage appears on the following routes:

• Laurel County along KY 3006 will be named Tom Jensen Highway
• Whitley County along I-75 at mile points 22-23 will be named Veterans Suicide Memorial Mile

“Tom Jensen is a man of integrity and has been a staple of our community for decades,” said state Sen. Albert Robinson. “He has held numerous distinguished titles throughout his years of service. He has served as State Representative, he proceeded me in my current position as State Senator of the 21^st District, and 27^th Judicial Circuit Judge to name a few.

“Above all else, he is a loving husband and father, and a friend to many. This dedication in his name is not only a sign of his dedicated public service, but also of how beloved he is by our community. It was my pleasure to sponsor the resolution honoring a great man and a friend,” Robinson added.

“It is only appropriate that we as a Commonwealth pay respect to the men and women who have served our country. Many of these soldiers are returning home from combat with not only physical but psychological ailments, leading to mental illness and at times suicide,” state Rep. Regina Huff said. “Suicide is a tragedy that affects all Americans, but studies show that active-duty members and veterans have a much higher rate of suicide. These brave men and women deserved to be remembered for all the sacrifices they made.”

Fifty-nine honorary names were designated statewide and will appear on 13 bridges, 29 roads and 16 honorary locations. Signage will remain posted indefinitely unless otherwise specified in House Joint Resolution 105.