Environmentally conscious state-of-the-art structure provides additional parking for Metrolink riders
Oct. 14, 2011
ORANGE – A new 823-space Metrolink parking structure is now open for business.
Serving approximately 800 daily passengers, the station has enhanced its parking facilities to account for anticipated future growth. The parking lot previously accommodated 300 vehicles and was at capacity.
“Increased ridership shows that Orange County residents are commuting to their jobs more than ever before,” said OCTA Director Jerry Amante, also Mayor of Tustin. “Taking alternative forms of transportation is a great way to reduce congestion on the streets. I hope Tustinites can use the parking structure and ride the train in place of a commute as I do a few times a month. Riding frees me up to be productive – reading the newspaper, going through work papers, writing emails or just enjoying a book! “
The five-level structure features energy efficient LED lighting, solar panels on the roof to power the facility and electronic signage at the entrance to display where parking spots are available.
“The structure is not only practical, but also environmentally conscious,” said OCTA Chair Patricia Bates, also the Fifth District Supervisor. “Accommodating commuter needs in a way that can help the environment is always a positive.”
OCTA’s Measure M contributed $8.25 million, with an additional $9.35 million in state funds to build the new parking garage. The structure was built by Bomel Construction Company, Watry Design and Griffin Structures who collaborated on the project. The structure came in 13 percent under budget for a total cost of $15.4 million.
Construction began October 2010 as part of the Metrolink Service Expansion Program between Fullerton and Laguna Niguel. Metrolink has experienced increases in ridership with a 9.5 percent increase in ridership from September 2011 vs. September 2010.
For more information on the Tustin Metrolink Station parking structure, visit: www.octa.net/tustinparking.
