The updated plan confirms that freeway, streets, transit and environmental programs remain on track to bring better mobility to Orange County
ORANGE – The Orange County Transportation Authority this week released the 2025 update of its Measure M2 Next 10 Delivery Plan, providing a refreshed and fiscally responsible roadmap for delivering freeway, street, transit, and environmental improvements across Orange County through 2035.
The plan, approved by the OCTA Board of Directors on Monday, Dec. 8, 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.”
The 2025 update confirms that the full 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 Freeway Program is one key part of the Next 10 Plan. Of the 30 project segments identified for delivery, 17 have been completed, three are currently under construction, and eight are advancing through final design. OCTA remains on track to complete 93% of freeway segments by 2033 – eight years early – despite inflationary pressures and evolving regulatory requirements.
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. OCTA continues to progress toward its endowment goal to support the management of protected properties.
Across local streets and roads, the plan supports continued investment in the Regional Capacity Program, Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Program, and Local Fair Share Program. These efforts help cities reduce congestion, coordinate traffic signals across 2,000 intersections, and maintain essential transportation infrastructure.
The Transit Program remains a major 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 continues 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 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.
The plan addresses several key risks, including a 5.7% decrease in the long-term sales tax revenue forecast and anticipated construction cost increases in the coming years. Despite these challenges, OCTA’s disciplined financial planning ensures the agency can continue delivering 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.
