Calif.'s OCTA to launch new bus design
The existing design, more than 20 years old, will be phased out to make way for the new look that prominently features a light blue and orange wave across the bus and the words “OC Bus.”

OCTA Chairman Jeff Lalloway, also Irvine’s mayor pro tem, (left) and OCTA CEO Darrell Johnson stand in front of the redesigned OCTA bus, which will soon roll out on Orange County streets.

OCTA Chairman Jeff Lalloway, also Irvine’s mayor pro tem, (left) and OCTA CEO Darrell Johnson stand in front of the redesigned OCTA bus, which will soon roll out on Orange County streets.
Calif.’s Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) board voted Monday to roll out a colorful new design for its buses as part of an ongoing and comprehensive effort to maximize service, retain riders and get the attention of new customers.
The existing design, more than 20 years old, will be phased out to make way for the new look that prominently features a light blue and orange wave across the bus and the words “OC Bus.” The recognizable blue-and-white OCTA logo also remains.
The timing was right for the re-branding because OCTA is in the process of replacing more than 40% of its bus fleet with 201 compressed natural gas-powered buses. The buses are scheduled for delivery from late 2015 to early 2017.

The newly designed OCTA buses include a prominent blue wave and the words “OC Bus.” The new design is set to roll out in phases as buses are replaced.
All photos courtesy OCTA
OCTA continues to explore ways to make its bus service a transportation option of choice for more Orange County residents by optimizing service delivery and by marketing and discounting prices to targeted groups.
Concepts for the new bus designs were reviewed by customers, advisory committees, members of the OCTA’s Teen Council and the millennial generation, and other stakeholders. The final design, they said, is inviting and dynamic and captures the personality of Orange County.
The new look is cost-effective to implement and maintain and is a timeless enough to last for years.
More Bus

More Than a Summer Job: Building the Next Generation of Transit Talent
The Delaware River Port Authority and PATCO have transformed their internship program into a hands-on professional development experience that introduces students to the breadth of transportation careers — and creates a pipeline for future employees.
Read More →
LA Metro Board Awards 220 Battery-Electric Bus Contract to ENC
The contract, which is the largest base award of battery-electric buses by a U.S. transit agency, will be built in Southern California, sustaining good jobs as LA prepares to welcome the world in 2028
Read More →
Public Transit Conference Returning to GFX in 2027, Call for Papers Now Open
The Call for Papers is now open, allowing transit agency professionals and industry experts to help shape the PTC educational program by submitting session ideas for consideration.
Read More →
Indian River Transit’s Community-Focused Approach Earns National Recognition
Named APTA’s 2026 Outstanding Public Transportation System in its size category, Florida’s Indian River County transit system continues to grow ridership through fare-free service and a focus on evolving community needs.
Read More →
ENC Lands MATA Contract and More in Biz Briefs
In this edition of Biz Briefs, we spotlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility.
Read More →
From Surviving to Thriving: Building Stronger Transportation Organizations
Bus Business Consultants founder Brian Dickson shares lessons on leadership, organizational health, and creating options for long-term success in a changing transportation industry.
Read More →
Everett Transit, Community Transit Outline Consolidation Agreement
The proposed agreement calls for a 50% increase in bus service in Everett, a new microtransit zone, continued paratransit service, and the transfer of Everett Transit operations to Community Transit.
Read More →
SEPTA Details Accelerate Vision for Transit System
The plan outlines investments in trolley modernization, new Metro and Regional Rail vehicles, accessible stations, and more frequent bus and rail service.
Read More →
Report: Transit Bus Manufacturing Supports 34,100 Jobs, $5.1B in GDP
The “Buses Mean Business” report examines the transit bus manufacturing industry’s economic footprint, supply chain, and rising demand for vehicle replacements.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: New Flyer Delivers in Columbus, Houston, Beep and Freebee Merge, and More
In this edition of Biz Briefs, we spotlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility.
Read More →