The OCTA Board of Directors held a workshop to discuss the proposed $1.29 billion budget for FY 2018-2019. The budget presented is balanced and aligns with OCTA’s long-term plans, goals and objectives.
The budget includes revenues from Orange County’s Measure M (also known as OC Go) and other local, state and federal funding sources and will guide spending for bus operations, rail, motorist services, freeway and street improvements, and the 91 Express Lanes. The budget also includes $27.5 million of Senate Bill 1 funding, including $6.8 million for streets and roads and $19.2 million for the bus program.
Large capital expenditures anticipated for the next fiscal year include $184.7 million for the OC Streetcar and $201.7 million for the I-405 Improvement Project.
Service levels for bus fixed routes will remain the same as last fiscal year with no fare increase proposed. Efforts to sustain and enhance ridership will continue through OC Bus 360°. Two new projects -- OC Flex, an on-demand, door-to-door shuttle service and Bravo! 529, an express bus service -- will be added to deliver transportation options that best match the varying needs of the public.
The proposed budget will return to the board on June 11 for a public hearing and consideration by the Board of Directors.