Representatives from OCTA, the City of Orange and the community joined together on July 26 to break ground on the construction of a new multi-level, shared-use parking structure at the Orange Transportation Center.
Scheduled to open in late 2018, the structure at 130 N. Lemon Street will provide much-need parking for the growing number of transit users and for people coming to Old Towne Orange to enjoy the many shopping and dining destinations.
“The city of Orange has a rich history related to the railroads dating back to the trains full of citrus and olives that passed through every day,” said OCTA Director Todd Spitzer, also the Supervisor representing Orange County’s Third District. “This project honors that history while helping serve the city’s train passengers for many years to come.”
The $33.2 million project is being funded by Measure M, the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements, by the City of Orange, and by a mix of state and federal funds.
”As a City Council member and OCTA Board member, I’m honored to be part of this important project that will provide a valuable resource for both Metrolink riders and visitors to Old Towne Orange, which is in many ways the heart of our great city,” said Orange Mayor Pro Tem Mark A. Murphy.
The City of Orange led the design to ensure that it honored the history and unique character of Old Towne Orange. With 611 spaces, 500 reserved for train riders and 111 designated for general use, the structure will more than triple the capacity of the 172-space surface lot it replaces. Only two levels of the five-story structure will be above ground to allow it to blend in with other buildings. Brick work and other design elements will be used to complement nearby historic structures while modern features like solar panels and electric car-charging ports will contribute to the building’s energy efficiency.
