Robin Williams Tunnel Gets Official Sign
Since his tragic death a year and a half ago, fans of Robin Williams are keeping his memory alive anyway they can, by watching his movies, his stand up, relishing in the unending stories of his random acts of kindness and now naming a tunnel after him.
The tunnel is in the Marin County, CA where Robin Williams lived. The SFgate reports, residents previously referred to the U.S. Highway 101 tunnel as the Waldo tunnel because it cuts through the Waldo Grade. It’s rainbow arches create nostalgic memories of Williams’ multi-colored suspenders on the sitcom, Mork & Mindy, which prompted Belvedere, California, resident Julie Wainwright to campaign for a name change following the actor’s death.
In her petition to rename the bridge after the late comedian on Change.org, Wainwright explained “To remember and honor the very important citizen and world renowned entertainer, Robin Williams, for the joy he brought to the world and to bring awareness to the silent illness that eventually took his life.” She went on to say “He was my neighbor — I often saw him running errands, walking the dog, performing at the local theater, working at the coffee shop – Robin wasn’t just an international icon — he was an integral part of our community here in the Bay Area. We claim him as our own.”
Over 60,000 supporters signed the petition, and last year the California State Senate unanimously voted to change the name to Robin Williams Tunnel. The sign change cost about $3,000 and was erected by Caltrans. The signs were paid for with donations from private sources. Caltrans District 4 tweeted out: “Nanu Nanu! New R Williams Tunnel – US 101 at SF Golden Gate Bridge. First day of service.”
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Renee Colvert
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