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I-95 overpass will be renamed in memory of tow truck driver

Posted at 4:59 PM, Apr 30, 2018
and last updated 2018-05-01 04:16:53-04

The widow of the tow truck driver who fell to his deathtrying to help a trucker in troublehas an idea for a problem-plagued part of Interstate 95.

"I just want them to change I-95 and Congress in the southbound lanes. There's been too many accidents; different kinds. Mostly people not paying attention. "I think they need to tear it down and rebuild it because that sharp right turn," Judy Randolph said.

For Randolph, the I-95 overpass near Congress Avenue is a constant reminder of how dangerous the area can be. There have been more than 150 crashes since 2011.

"It always brings out first responders and they risk their lives every day," she said. 

Some days are harder than others. She has been grieving the loss of her husband of 35 years, who died last year.

"Such a good person, a good man. I miss his energy, and I just miss him," said Randolph said.

She learned the overpass will be renamed the "Richard Jason Randolph Memorial Bridge" to honor not only a husband but a man who helped so many.

"I was told this is the first time they have honored a tow truck driver and he certainly deserved it, out there for 23 years and helped so many people," Randolph said.

A year later, she still replays the last conversation she had with Richard.

"And then he was halfway down the stairs that he came up and turned around and said, 'I'll see you later pumpkin, I love you.' I miss that so much."

The renaming was passed by the state legislature. It could take place towards the end of the summer.