DEFREESTVILLE — One year after CSEA state Department of Transportation activist Robert Bornt’s death, he is being remembered by his union family, co-workers and loved ones.
Bornt, who was serving as president of our union’s DOT Rensselaer County Residency Unit, died May 30, 2025, from injuries following a work zone intrusion on a state highway in Pittstown.
Recently, a moving ceremony was held at the state DOT Rensselaer County Transportation and Maintenance Facility where a memorial honoring Bornt’s life and legacy was unveiled.
More than 100 people gathered for the ceremony, including Bornt’s co-workers from the residency and throughout the Capital Region, as well as Bornt’s family and friends, several CSEA staff members, CSEA Capital Region President Shana Davis, CSEA Executive Vice President Jarvis T. Brown and CSEA Statewide Secretary Stacey Baldwin Deyo.
Bornt’s dedication to work, family and community was highlighted, along with the impact of his loss and calls for safer driving habits and stiffer penalties for offenders.
“Robert will always be remembered for the service he provided to the entirety of Rensselaer County and the Capital Region,” said NYS DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez. “He provided service in so many ways, and he paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to others.”
Dominguez had a message for drivers.
“Slow down, move over and pay attention,” said Dominguez. “Treat driving like a full-time job. Do it and do it correctly!”
Davis gave remarks on behalf of CSEA honoring Bornt’s work for DOT and in his community. She also shared stories of her time with Bornt’s family in the wake of his death and the support provided by his CSEA family.
Bornt’s daughter, Ally Bornt, gave heartfelt remarks about her dad, his work ethic, the lessons he taught her, his love for community and the loss she and her family have endured.
“His loss leaves an emptiness our family can’t describe,” said Bornt. “We thank CSEA for their support, for checking on us and for making sure we are never alone in our grief.”
Ally Bornt urged drivers to be mindful of workers who deserve to make it home at the end of their workday.
“The people in work zones are mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, grandparents and friends,” said Bornt. “That is why safety matters.”
— Therese Assalian
