Massachusetts officials are moving to name a bridge in honor of retiring Boston Red Sox slugger David Ortiz.The House of Representatives has approved a supplemental budget that includes language that would rename the Brookline Avenue Bridge the David Ortiz (Big Papi) Bridge.
The bridge spans the Massachusetts Turnpike between Landsdowne Street and Newbury Street, near Fenway Park.
Lawmakers say the honor for Ortiz, in his final season with the playoff-bound Red Sox, recognizes his accomplishments on and off the field. They noted his charitable work on behalf of children in New England and his native Dominican Republic. Lawmakers are also recognizing Ortiz's efforts to help the city heal after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing.
The House passed the bill during an informal session on Thursday. It now goes to the Senate.