FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

April 9, 2019

Contact: Sen. Roth: (608) 266-0718 / Sen. Cowles: (608) 266-0484

Bill to Designate Mike Ellis Memorial Interchange Passes Legislature

MADISON– Senators Roger Roth (R-Appleton) and Robert Cowles (R-Green Bay) released the following statement after 2019 Senate Bill 1, which requires that the I-41, USH-10, and STH-441 interchange in Winnebago County be designated as the ‘Michael G. Ellis Memorial Interchange,’ passed the Senate and the Assembly on a voice vote during today’s floor sessions: 

Senator Roth stated, “Mike Ellis was a close friend and a trusted mentor to myself and countless individuals throughout the Capitol. His keen wit, unique personality, and tireless advocacy for his district left an incomparable imprint not only on the Fox Valley but all of Wisconsin. Mike often told me that development of the I-41 corridor was the proudest achievement of his career and it is only fitting for his name to be permanently enshrined on that project. I am thrilled to see Senate Bill 1 pass through the legislature with unanimous support and permanently recognize Mike’s contribution to the region.”

Senator Cowles added, “Mike Ellis was a once in a generation elected leader for our state who always managed to put his district first. After his sudden and unexpected passing last year, the outpouring of stories and condolences helped to illustrate truly how large his impact on the Fox Valley was, both personally and professionally. Given that this interchange was one of the key achievements he championed, it was fitting that Mike got to see this project finished before his passing. I feel that Senate Bill 1 is a fitting honor for a truly great legislator, community member, and friend who committed decades of his life towards making the Fox Valley and the entire state a better place to live, work, and visit. I’m pleased to be joining my colleagues from the Fox Valley area to author this bill.”

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