It's Official: 'David Ortiz Bridge,' 'David Ortiz Drive' Coming to Boston

BOSTON, MA — It's official. David Ortiz is getting a bridge and—surprise!—also a street named after him in Boston, cementing his place in the city long after the Red Sox slugger retires.

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The surprise Sunday was the second local landmark that will bear his name, renaming a connecting street near Fenway Park as "David Ortiz Drive." Walsh presented that sign on the field, alongside Baker.

In a statement, Walsh said:

"David Ortiz is a true Bostonian and he embodies the spirit of our great City. I am proud that the City of Boston is able to honor his career and legacy with the Red Sox and show our gratitude for all of his contributions to our community and beyond."

David Ortiz Drive will replace the Yawkey Way Extension, which connects Maitland Street and Brookline Avenue. The street was built in 2013, and given a temporary name. A pedestrian plaza along the street is lined with all the retired numbers of Red Sox greats.

Street name changes must be approved by the City of Boston's Public Improvement Commission, the mayor's office said. The PIC expects to hear the petition from the Red Sox formally requesting this name change before Opening Day 2017.

Top image courtesy Gov. Charlie Baker via Twitter

This story was updated 11:09 a.m., Oct. 3.