SACRAMENTO—An Assembly policy committee on Monday approved plans to add new names to a couple of old places on the North Coast.

The Assembly Transportation Committee approved a pair of resolutions by Assemblywoman Patty Berg, D-Eureka, that would name a Mendocino County bridge after a pioneer woman, and name a stretch of Highway 101 in Del Norte after a slain California Highway Patrol officer.

Berg’s ACR 30 would name the northern span of the Eel River Bridge on Highway 101 as the Elizabeth Jane Rosewarne Memorial Bridge, after the pioneer woman who resettled there after leaving San Francisco in 1897. The Rosewarne’s settled on a 160-acre parcel across from Confusion Hill. After her husband’s death, she opened a Texaco Star gas station and country store to support herself and her children. The southern span of the Eel River Bridge will be named after her friend, Minney Lilley.

“This is a lasting way to honor pioneer women and their contributions to California history,” said Berg, D-Eureka. “Women like Elizabeth helped Mendocino County and California become what it is today. We stand on their shoulders of accomplishments and contributions to California.”

ACR 31 would designate a portion of Highway 101 in Del Norte County as the California Highway Patrol Officer Ernest R. Felio Memorial Highway. A Navy veteran of the Korean War, Felio joined the CHP in 1962. Felio was awarded the Medal of Valor by the State of California for his bravery in saving a man’s life who was a victim of electrocution during a traffic collision. Known for his bravery and kindness to families in need, Felio’s life tragically ended in 1980 during a routine traffic stop.

“We should always honor our brave men and women who put their lives on the line each day,” said Berg. “Officer Felio gave his life in the service of others. He will be always remembered for his courage, kindness and love of fellow human beings.”

There are several more steps in the legislative process before the name changes could become official.