An Assembly panel approved today bipartisan legislation sponsored by the 16^th District delegation Sen. Christopher “Kip” Bateman and Assembly members Jack M. Ciattarelli and Donna Simon to dedicate the U.S. Route 206 bypass in Hillsborough to the late Assemblyman Peter J. Biondi.

“Peter Biondi dedicated his life to public service for the persisting benefit of our state, as he supported and mentored many young political candidates,” said Bateman, R-Somerset, Hunterdon, Mercer and Middlesex.

“We should commemorate this gregarious, loving family man, who also dedicated his life to improving the state, Somerset County and Hillsborough, as well as volunteering on youth service committees and serving as a firefighter.”

The Assembly Transportation, Public Works and Independent Utilities Committee approved A-2750 and S-1899 today. The Senate has already approved the tribute.

“Peter Biondi advocated fervently for this bypass because he knew what it meant to Hillsborough’s quality-of-life and the realization of its downtown vision plan,” said Ciattarelli, R-Somerset, Hunterdon, Mercer and Middlesex. “This is a fitting tribute to someone who spent his life serving Hillsborough, Somerset County and nearby communities with tireless dedication.”

The legislation would rename the bypass the “Peter J. Biondi Bypass,” without expense to state taxpayers.

“We will always remember the man known as ‘Mr. Hillsborough’ with gratitude for his public service as a volunteer, elected official and Army Reserve veteran. This tribute will make sure his service is never forgotten,” said Simon, R-Hunterdon, Somerset, Mercer and Middlesex. “Peter Biondi’s legacy is still felt in the communities he served and this tribute is a small thank you to someone who has given us so much.”

Biondi, who lost his battle with cancer in November, served the 16^th Legislative District for 14 years. He had previously served as Hillsborough mayor and Somerset County freeholder. He was instrumental in getting funding for the Route 206 bypass.