In May, CEO Darrell E. Johnson traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent Orange County at the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Legislative Conference. This high-level event brought together national transportation leaders and decision-makers to shape the future of mobility in the United States.
During the conference, Johnson heard directly from key figures in the Administration and Congress, including U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, Acting Federal Transit Administrator Tariq Bokhari, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair Sam Graves (R-MO), and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA). Central to these discussions was the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization — a policy decision that will impact infrastructure investment across the nation.
While in Washington, Johnson met with members of Orange County’s congressional delegation and senior federal officials to advocate for OCTA’s priorities. These discussions emphasized the importance of sustained federal funding for critical infrastructure projects, particularly the stabilization and enhancement of the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor — a key regional and statewide transportation link.
Johnson’s active participation at the national level reinforces OCTA’s commitment to ensuring Orange County’s needs and interests are front and center in federal policy decisions. His leadership in these conversations helps secure the resources and support necessary to maintain a safe, efficient, and reliable transportation network for the region.
By maintaining a strong presence in Washington, OCTA continues to be a proactive voice for Orange County — advocating for strategic investments that will shape the region’s mobility and economic growth for years to come.