California’s Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) released an update to its Measure M2 Next 10 Delivery Plan, providing a refreshed, fiscally responsible roadmap for delivering freeway, street, transit, and environmental improvements across Orange County through 2035.

The plan, approved by the OCTA board, incorporates the most recent sales tax revenue forecast — now estimated at $13.2 billion through 2041 — external funding assumptions, and refined project schedules and costs to ensure OCTA continues meeting the commitments made to voters when the half-cent transportation sales tax measure was approved in 2006.

“This updated Next 10 Plan reflects OCTA’s continued promise to deliver meaningful mobility improvements for the people of Orange County,” OCTA Chair Doug Chaffee said. “Even in the face of economic and regulatory challenges, OCTA remains fully committed to responsible planning and investing in projects that keep our communities moving safely and efficiently.”

OCTA’s 2025 Update

The 2025 update confirms the complete M2 Program remains deliverable through 2041 and outlines approximately $6.1 billion in transportation investments over the next decade. 

The plan continues to prioritize early delivery of improvements while maintaining financial sustainability and limiting reliance on future debt.

The update also maintains critical funding for the Environmental Mitigation Program, which provides long-term preservation and restoration of open space to offset project impacts. 

Across local streets and roads, the plan supports continued investment in the Regional Capacity Program, the Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Program, and the Local Fair Share Program. These efforts help cities reduce congestion, coordinate traffic signals across 2,000 intersections, and maintain essential transportation infrastructure, according to OCTA officials.

Transit Priorities

The Transit Program remains a significant area of focus, particularly the sustainability of Metrolink operations. While ridership is growing, performance continues to fall short of forecasts, and rising costs present long-term financial challenges. 

OCTA is working closely with Metrolink and partner agencies to develop a financially sustainable service plan that protects Orange County’s rail mobility needs through 2041.

Preparation and testing also continue for the OC Streetcar, scheduled to open in 2026, and the plan maintains stable funding for senior mobility programs, community-based transit circulators, and enhancements at the county’s busiest bus stops.

Railroad track stabilization in South Orange County also remains a top priority, as coastal erosion and storm surges continue to pose risks to the LOSSAN Rail Corridor. 

OCTA is partnering with state and regional agencies to pursue both short-term protections and a long-term strategy to ensure rail service reliability.

Preparing for Plan Execution

The plan addresses several key risks, including a 5.7% decrease in the long-term sales tax revenue forecast and anticipated increases in construction costs over the coming years. 

Despite these challenges, OCTA’s disciplined financial planning ensures the agency can continue to deliver on its commitments while adapting to changing conditions.

With the updated revenue outlook, refined project information, and ongoing collaboration among local and regional partners, the 2025 Next 10 Delivery Plan reinforces OCTA’s role in providing balanced, sustainable transportation solutions for Orange County, agency officials said.