California’s Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) remains on track in the ongoing effort to successfully deliver the promises made to voters to improve Orange County’s transportation network, according to the recent findings of an independent Measure M2 Performance Assessment.

The assessment, covering the period from July 2021 to June 2024, was conducted by Sjoberg Evashenk Consulting and evaluated OCTA’s efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance in delivering transportation improvements funded through the half-cent sales tax initiative. 

Measure M at Work

Measure M was first approved by voters in 1991 and overwhelmingly renewed in 2006. It is expected to result in approximately $14 billion investments in Orange County’s transportation system through 2041, making improvements to local freeways and streets and to transit.

The report confirms that OCTA remains on track to fulfill its long-term commitments, having already delivered more than half of the program’s pledged projects since the renewed measure officially went into effect in 2011.

“The findings of this independent review reflect OCTA’s commitment to smart and responsible investments in Orange County’s transportation infrastructure,” said OCTA Chair Doug Chaffee, also Orange County’s Fourth District Supervisor. “Measure M continues to make a real difference in improving mobility, and we will continue to implement best practices to ensure efficiency, transparency, and fiscal prudence.”

Key Findings from the Performance Assessment

The report found that OCTA continues to make substantial progress toward meeting the measure’s six overarching goals, which include relieving traffic congestion, improving streets and freeways, expanding transit options, and protecting the environment.

OCTA was recognized for strong program management practices, ensuring that projects are delivered efficiently while safeguarding public funds. 

The agency was commended for maintaining sound fiscal practices, leveraging state and federal dollars efficiently, and successfully adapting to economic fluctuations.

The assessment also found that OCTA fully complies with all requirements outlined in the measure, including maintaining strict oversight of sales tax expenditures and conducting annual eligibility assessments for local jurisdictions. 

Additionally, OCTA was praised for its ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability in its communication with the Board of Directors, the Taxpayer Oversight Committee, and the public.

Ongoing Improvements, Recommendations

While no major deficiencies were identified, the consultant provided four recommendations for continued enhancement:

• Increasing clarity when updating project schedules and cost estimates. 

• Improving documentation regarding vendor selection processes.

• Updating administrative policies to streamline the notice-to-proceed process. 

• Faster processing of vendor payments to maintain efficiency.

OCTA has already taken steps to address these areas and will provide implementation updates in its quarterly reports on the Measure M program.

Since voters renewed Measure M in 2006, OCTA has conducted regular independent performance assessments every three years to ensure accountability. This sixth assessment continues the trend of positive reviews, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to fulfilling the promises made to Orange County voters.