As 2014 came to an end, OCTA and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) made a difference on the streets through a community partnership and providing alternatives to driving while intoxicated.
To promote safe travels, OCTA continued its tradition of offering free bus rides on New Year’s Eve. From 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014 until 2:30 a.m., Thursday, January 1, 2015, rides on all fixed-route buses were free.
Over the past 12 years, nearly 100,000 people have taken advantage of this special free bus service. OCTA provides 600 buses traveling on 77 designated routes with stops at more than 6,500 bus stops in Orange County, making the bus one the safest and most convenient ways to get around on New Year’s Eve.
The OCSD put maximum enforcement efforts to combat driving under the influence on Orange County streets through DUI checkpoints, patrol enforcement, and public education. The average cost of a first time DUI arrest is well over $10,000 in addition to loss of driving privileges and possible incarceration. New Year’s Eve rides on OCTA fixed-route buses provide an excellent alternative.
On behalf of the OCSD and OCTA, have a safe and happy new year.