The California State Senate today unanimously approved Senate Concurrent Resolution 21 by Senators Patricia Bates (R–Laguna Niguel) and John Moorlach (R-Costa Mesa) that designates a portion of State Route 55 from 19th Street to MacArthur Boulevard in Orange County as the “Costa Mesa Fire Captain Michael Kreza Memorial Highway.” With the Assembly previously approving SCR 21, it will soon become law as it does not need Governor Newsom’s approval.

Senator Bates said, “No words and no act can ever truly express the gratitude that we have for Captain Mike Kreza’s life of service. However, I do hope that the highway naming in his honor will remind people of his commitment to keep Orange County safe. May his memory continue to inspire others as we need more role models like him.”

Senator Moorlach stated, “Captain Mike Kreza was a leader in the Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue Department and a role model for the community. While the immense loss for his family and community can never be replaced, I am hopeful that his memory will be honored and live on in future generations.”

Specifically, SCR 21 requests the California Department of Transportation to determine the cost of appropriate signs honoring Captain Kreza and, upon receiving donations from non-state sources covering that cost, to erect those signs when ready.

Captain Kreza, who lived in Rancho Santa Margarita, passed away on November 5, 2018, due to injuries he suffered when he was hit by a van while riding his bicycle off-duty in Mission Viejo. Costa Mesa’s residents and his fellow firefighters have saluted his character, integrity, and commitment to serving the public. Captain Kreza was the son of a police officer who followed his father’s example by enrolling in fire science classes at Santa Ana College after high school.

He is survived by his wife, Shanna, and their three young daughters.