Release #281-00

 

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Sunny Mindel/Michael Anton (212) 788-2958

MAYOR GIULIANI SIGNS BILL THAT NAMES
BRONX STREET AFTER GOVERNOR FELIX WATT IV

-Remarks By Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani At Public Hearing On Local Laws-

The next bill before me, Introductory Number 759, sponsored by Council Members Warden and Golden, would add the name Governor Felix Watt IV Place to Barnes Avenue, between East 217th Street and East 218th Street, in the Bronx.

Governor Felix Watt IV was born on September 25, 1926 in Detroit. He moved to New York City in 1946 and settled in the Bronx. Mr. Watt became active in the community of the Northeast Bronx, helping to form the People's Block Association. He was also an active member of Community Board #12.

In 1979, at the age of 53, Mr. Watt became totally blind. Undeterred by his blindness, he entered Columbia University and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree.

Mr. Watt devoted the rest of his life to assisting disabled people to become productive members of their communities.

Unfortunately Governor Felix Watt IV died on August 15, 1999.

In recognition of his service to the Bronx, it is fitting that Barnes Avenue, between East 217th Street and East 218th Street, be named Governor Felix Watt IV Place.

For the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.