Both Gov. John Baldacci and the Maine Turnpike Authority released statements today after learning of the death of former state Rep. George Carroll of Limerick, who was known for his support of transportation issues in Maine.

“George was a good friend and an impressive public servant. You would have to call him Mr. Transportation for Maine,” Baldacci said. “There’s not a road or bridge in the state that he didn’t support. He had a long and distinguished career working in the public interest. George was a wonderful man. We will keep his family in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time.”

The turnpike authority's Board of Directors and turnpike authority staff also issued a statement saying they were deeply saddened by Carroll’s passing.

“George Carroll was a wonderful public servant and a good friend,” said Gerard Conley, chairman of the turnpike authority’s board and former president of the Maine Senate. “It was an honor to know him and serve with him.”

As a young legislator, Carroll authored the 1965 legislation that designated the Maine Turnpike as the Gold Star Memorial Highway. He wrote the bill after meeting with a group of World War II Gold Star Mothers and sensing that they felt forgotten by their state and country.

In November 2001, 36 years after Carroll’s bill was signed into law, the turnpike authority held a special event to rededicate the highway and honor all Maine Gold Star Mothers. Carroll, then 80, was the guest speaker and arrived wearing his World War II Army uniform.

“As a legislator, George accomplished great things for transportation in Maine, and he will always come to mind when I pass by one of our Gold Star highway signs,” Conley said. “Our prayers are with George’s family and many friends.”

Baldacci said he will order flags flown at half-staff in Limerick on the day of Carroll’s funeral. Information on services was not immediately available.