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    OCTA warded $45 million to invest in transit projects
    • April 29, 2023

    The Orange County Transportation Authority has been awarded nearly $45 million by the California State Transportation Agency for two projects that officials say will help improve the bus and rail systems while addressing air quality.

    One project is focused on increasing public transit options in central Orange County, and another is looking at the future of rail service along a key route in Southern California that is threatened by sea level rise and erosion issues.

    “We are very thankful to the state for continuing to recognize the value of our projects in Orange County, which will continue to enhance the ability of our residents, workers and visitors to more efficiently travel to their destinations by using public transit,” Gene Hernandez, OCTA chairman and mayor of Yorba Linda, said in a statement.

    The OCTA announced about $39.4 million was received for the Central Mobility Loop project, which includes purchasing 33 zero-emission buses and replacing another 10 gas-powered vehicles with zero-emission versions. The new buses are expected to hit the road in early 2026.

    The money will also fund an effort to synchronize traffic signals that will allow buses to move through intersections at more consistent speeds and the installation of a new bike storage space at the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center and fast-charging stations at the center and the Fullerton Transportation Center.

    The state agency also earmarked $5 million to help the OCTA fund a study of longer-term solutions to the threats facing the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo, or LOSSSAN, rail corridor through south Orange County from climate change and coastal erosion.

    Train traffic through San Clemente is currently halted because of a landslide this week and daily passenger service had recently been impacted for several months because the tracks had been shifted in another nearby section by crashing waves and a sliding hillside.

    These funds are in addition to a previous Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program award of $150 million to help fund the completion of the OC Streetcar.

    “Our successful funding applications were possible through the strong support of Orange County’s state and federal elected officials, our city partners and neighboring transportation agencies,” Darrell E. Johnson, OTCA CEO, said in a statement. “We very much appreciate their collaboration and look forward to continued partnership as we work to advance these important transportation projects.”

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    ​ Orange County Register 

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