SILVER CREEK — Family, friends and coworkers recently gathered to honor the life and sacrifice of fallen CSEA member Stephen C. Ebling during a ceremony dedicating a bridge in his memory.
Ebling’s family was on hand for the unveiling of a sign naming the bridge over the New York State Thruway on Eden-Evans Center Road the “Maintenance Supervisor Stephen C. Ebling Memorial Bridge.”
The designation was established through legislation sponsored by state Sen. Patrick Gallivan and state Assemblymember David DiPietro and signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul. Representatives from both lawmakers’ offices attended the ceremony and spoke about Ebling’s dedication to his family, career and community.
“Steve was a dedicated family man who exemplified public service,” said Gallivan. “We recognize his hard work and commitment to keeping our community safe and the sacrifice he and his family have made. Dedicating the bridge in his name not only honors his memory but serves as a reminder of the danger he and his colleagues face while keeping our highways safe. The residents of New York state are grateful for his service.”
Ebling was a 15-year veteran of the New York State Thruway Authority. On Nov. 4, 2024, he was working along westbound Interstate 90 in the town of Hanover when a vehicle crossed over the hazard markings and struck him.
Outside of his work with the Thruway Authority, Ebling continued his commitment to public service as a part-time police officer with the North Collins Police Department.
“Stephen Ebling was a selfless public servant,” said DiPietro. “Naming this bridge in his honor is a small but lasting way to ensure his sacrifice is never forgotten.”
CSEA represents supervisors employed by the Thruway Authority. Following Ebling’s death, our union called on state leaders to strengthen protections for highway workers through stronger laws and penalties, as well as increased public education about the importance of slowing down and moving over.
The newly dedicated bridge will serve as a lasting tribute to Ebling and a reminder to every motorist who passes beneath it that highway workers are public servants with families waiting for them to return home safely.
— Sara McNicholas