Lakewood Politicians Dedicate Part Of Highway To Former Governor

LAKEWOOD, OH — During a weekend ceremony at Lakewood High School, two local politicians dedicated a portion of I-90 west as the "Governor Richard F. Celeste Highway." State Senator Nickie Antonio and State Representative Michael Skindell shepherded Senate Bill 86 through the state congress at the end of 2018.

“I was inspired by Governor Celeste’s progressive leadership which motivated so many young Ohioans to enter public service in the 1980s and the 1990s. Certainly I have been influenced by that leadership and have been honored to get to know Governor Celeste and his family over the years,” said Antonio. “I feel privileged to be involved in this dedication honoring Governor Celeste’s legacy to the state of Ohio.”

Richard Celeste spent several decades in Ohio politics, starting as a state representative in the 1970s. He then became a lieutenant governor before spending two terms as Ohio's 64th governor from 1983 to 1991.

Celeste was also director of the Peace Corps, U.S. Ambassador to India and president of Colorado College.

“Governor Celeste has led a long and distinguished career as a public servant,” said Rep. Skindell. “Personally, it is an honor for me to see this legislation passed, as I was inspired by candidate and Governor Celeste when I was attending college in the 1980s. It is also an honor to know that this portion of I-90 in Cleveland will bear the name of a great governor and great man, Richard Celeste.”

Richard Celeste Highway is located at I-90 west in Cleveland, between mile markers 167 and 170.

"I am grateful for the recognition bestowed today,” said Celeste. “I was privileged to serve the people of this community and of our state, and truthfully, this honor belongs not only to me, but also to the many individuals in state government with whom I worked for 20 years. I love my hometown of Lakewood; I was proud to be ‘the Governor from Cleveland’; and I continue to care deeply about Ohio—truly the heart of it all. My hope today is for a fresh generation of dedicated citizens who will build a strong constituency for progressive change in our state.”