Millions awarded to improve local transit across Orange County, including seasonal trolley service

The Orange County Transportation Authority has allocated $42.4 million in funding to support community-based transit programs that it says will help cities and the county improve transportation options for residents and visitors.

The funding, distributed through Measure M, a local half-cent sales tax for transportation, aims to enhance mobility and reduce congestion through seasonal trolleys, special event shuttles and on-demand services.

"Our primary mission at OCTA is to keep Orange County moving," said OCTA Chair Tam T. Nguyen. "This is another great example of working with cities to best meet their needs and help make public transit an attractive option."

The funds will continue 11 existing community-circulator services and expand four services in cities like Laguna Beach, San Clemente and greater Orange County. Additionally, eight new services will be implemented, covering areas like Irvine, Laguna Niguel and San Juan Capistrano.

The full breakdown of awarded funding is below:

In the last fiscal year, over 712,000 boardings were recorded on these transit services, contributing to a total of 4.6 million boardings overall. Cities and the county applied for the funding on a competitive basis, committing to at least 10% in matching funds, according to OCTA.

Nguyen said these investments are part of OCTA's ongoing work to improve transit service within its system and complement the larger regional system of buses and trains by helping fill some gaps in existing service.

"With this effort, we are enhancing accessibility and improving connectivity throughout Orange County," Nguyen added.

For more details, visit www.octa.net .