LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Michael Webber on Wednesday sent a letter to the chair of the Senate Committee on Local Government requesting a committee hearing to advance his legislation that would rename a portion of Grand River Avenue in downtown East Lansing after Earvin “Magic” Johnson.
“I sponsored this legislation as a way to honor what Magic Johnson was able to do on the court, but also to acknowledge the lasting legacy he left at Michigan State and within the East Lansing community,” said Webber, R-Rochester Hills.
The letter states, in part, “As a proud Spartan, I know firsthand the long-lasting legacy that Magic Johnson established during his time at Michigan State. I was a student when the Spartans won their most recent national title, and many would agree the success of the men’s basketball program is largely influenced by what Johnson was able to do on the court.”
Senate Bill 534 would rename Grand River Avenue (M-43) in downtown East Lansing from North Harrison to Hagadorn Road as the “Magic Johnson Way.”
“This section of road is one of East Lansing’s most traveled roads, and this legislation will serve as a reminder of Magic Johnson’s contributions to the basketball program and the university as a whole,” Webber said. “Magic Johnson certainly solidified his place in Spartan history and is more than deserving of this recognition.”
###
Editor’s note: A copy of Webber’s letter to the committee chair is attached to this email.