State Panel Awards OCTA Projects $218 Million

Commuters find relief in transit services during difficult economic times

ORANGE – Bus and Metrolink ridership continued to soar in October as more residents discover taking public transportation is an ideal way to save money during difficult economic times.

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) experienced another milestone in 2008 with 6.3 million boardings – the highest in the agency’s 36 year history.

Metrolink service also continued to see an increase in ridership with an 11 percent jump in October compared to last year.

The ridership counts represent a change in commuter habits. With many people suffering from the troublesome economy, the savings from public transportation are greater than ever.

“More people in Orange County are discovering the convenience and economy of riding our buses,” said OCTA Chairman Chris Norby, also the Fourth District supervisor. “We’re excited about providing ever safer and more efficient travel options for our residents.”

According to an analysis from the American Public Transportation Association, commuters in Orange County can save an average of nearly $650 a month by taking OCTA’s bus system, which equates to more than $7,500 a year.

Ridership counts during 2008:


Bus
Metrolink
July ‘08
6.2 million
399,700
August ‘08
6 million
377,100
September ‘08
6.1 million
373,100
October ‘08
6.3 million
395,900