Senator Joe Kyrillos has introduced “Drew’s Law,” seeking to lower speed limits around New Jersey’s parks. “Drew’s Law” was named in honor of 11-year-old Drew Keough, who was tragically killed while crossing the street near Keansburg’s Forest Park on April 22, 2014.

The legislation seeks to improve pedestrian safety by establishing a 15-mph speed limit on roads passing through or adjacent to public parks during hours when the park is open or when children are clearly visible from the road. Under the bill, violators would face fines between $100 and $400, double the current amount.

“Our family has been devastated by this loss,” Drew’s uncle, Joseph W. Pezzano, a longtime Keansburg police officer, said in a statement on behalf of the family in support of the legislation. “Drew was a bright vibrant 11-year-old that made kids and adults feel better about themselves, on a daily basis. He was small in stature but larger than life. We thank Senator Kyrillos for all he has done to introduce Drew’s Law. It is our families’ hope that Drew’s death will not have been in vain and it will serve as an opportunity to save future lives by the enactment of Drew’s Law.”

“The Keansburg community is still reeling from this terrible loss,” said Kyrillos (R-Monmouth). “We must make sure the roadways around parks give our children the utmost safety. The time to do that is now. Slowing traffic is a small price to pay and I thank members of Drew’s family and others for their input on this important measure.”

The legislation is co-sponsored by Senator Nicholas Sacco (D-Bergen, Hudson), chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee. [TLS]