Family and friends of Pontiac police officer Casey Kohlmeier gathered along I-55 in Livingston County (Friday) to dedicate a section of the highway in his name.

A newly-posted sign names a section of the Illinois roadway "Casey Kohlmeier Memorial Highway." The hope is that the visibility of the sign will change people's driving habits and keep his memory alive.

Kohlmeier and his K-9 partner Draco were killed on October 30, 2013, when a drunken driver slammed into Kohlmeier's squad car in the median. The driver is serving a 12-year prison term.

The officer's mother, Keri Schmidt, said "More than anything, I hope they remember he was killed by a drunk driver."

His father, Jeff Kohlmeier, said he hopes a sign dedicated to a police officer "will bring awareness that these guys are risking their lives.

Kohlmeier, an Air Force veteran, had served on the Pontiac Police Department for six years and was part of the Livingston County Proactive Unit.

State Senator Jason Barickman and former State Representative Josh Harms worked with the Illinois Police Benevolent & Protective Association to gain legislative approval to dedicate I-55 between exist 197 and 202 as 'Casey J. Kohlmeier Memorial Highway.'

94.1 WGFA