Measure M, the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements, has reached 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.
“Measure M represents a promise to Orange County voters, and we are proud to be delivering on that commitment every day,” said OCTA Chair Jamey M. Federico. “For 15 years, OCTA has carefully invested taxpayer dollars to build and maintain one of the finest transportation systems in the state, while also protecting the environment that makes Orange County such a great place to live, work and visit.”
To share information about Measure M, OCTA created a toolkit, 15 Years of Measure M, featuring a website, video, and social media content.
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.
As Orange County grows and evolves, Measure M will continue to provide the reliable funding needed to support a modern, efficient and environmentally responsible transportation network.
“Fifteen years in with Measure M and the progress is clear,” said OCTA CEO Darrell E. Johnson. “And the best part: We’re only halfway there.”