OCTA recognizes major milestone for LA County Measure M, funding up to 2041

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is marking a major milestone for Measure M, the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements, as the renewed voter-approved program reaches the halfway point of its 30-year lifespan.

Fifteen years into the program, which began collecting revenue in April 2011, and continues through 2041, the renewed Measure M has delivered billions of dollars in transportation improvements across Orange County, fulfilling a promise made to voters to provide reliable, locally controlled funding for a balanced and sustainable transportation system.

Since its inception, Measure M has generated nearly $7.5 billion in transportation investments, leveraging additional state and federal funding to improve freeways, streets and roads, and public transit. It has also created better options for cyclists and pedestrians, while also supporting programs that protect the environment.

OCTA created a website and video that highlights some of the accomplishments of the first 15 years of the renewed Measure M at www.octa.net/MeasureM15.

With regards to transit, Measure M funds reduced bus fares and transit programs for seniors and people with disabilities, as well as community and special event shuttles. Funding also supports Metrolink rail service in Orange County, upgrades to stations, and expanded transit connections, and it is helping bring the OC Streetcar into service.

Measure M, expected to generate approximately $13.2 billion over its lifespan, is also delivering significant environmental benefits to offset the impacts of transportation projects.

With 15 years remaining, OCTA continues its commitment to the Measure M plan, investing across all modes of transportation, while maintaining strong accountability and transparency.

Approved by nearly 70% of voters in 2006, Measure M includes strict taxpayer safeguards and independent oversight to ensure funds are spent as promised. Regular public reporting continues to track progress and ensure accountability.

OCTA also recently completed a comprehensive 10-year review of the program, evaluating performance, financial capacity, project delivery and public priorities. The review found that Measure M remains on track to deliver on the commitments made to voters and continues to align with Orange County’s transportation needs. The review also included extensive community outreach and found continued strong support for locally controlled transportation funding, with residents prioritizing road maintenance, traffic flow improvements and congestion relief, along with continued investment in transit options.

The current 30-year program follows the successful completion of the first voter-approved Measure M half-cent sales tax, which funded more than $4 billion worth of projects, programs and services between 1991 and 2011.  

Source: OCTA