OC Connect
Overview
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is studying the development of a biking and walking trail connection along the former Pacific Electric Right-of-Way (PE ROW) corridor in Santa Ana and Garden Grove. The OC Connect study area includes 3.1 miles of the PE ROW between Raitt Street in Santa Ana and Euclid Avenue in Garden Grove, as well as 0.85 miles of the Wintersburg Channel between the PE ROW and Hazard Avenue in Santa Ana.
The project creates a 4-mile biking and walking trail connection between the downtown areas of Garden Grove and Santa Ana as well as to the Santa Ana River Trail and the countywide 66-mile OC Loop bikeway. This project would improve the transportation network along the corridor and provide a well connected active transportation route.
Benefits
The OC Connect trail project would provide critical connections between Garden Grove and Santa Ana with public access from various entry points along the trail. It would increase the use of active transportation travel modes, provide a no-cost, zero-emission transportation option, enhance mobility for non-motorized users, and facilitate active travel away from high-speed and high-volume traffic. The completed study will support the advancement of subsequent project phases to be led by the cities of Garden Grove and Santa Ana.
Upcoming Environmental Site Assessment
The OC Connect project team is now conducting a Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) to better understand existing soil and material conditions along the project corridor and ensure the project moves forward safely and responsibly. This work involves collecting small soil samples at select locations and testing certain roadway and bridge materials, with minimal disruption to surrounding neighborhoods. The information gathered will help confirm site conditions, identify whether any additional measures are needed, and support informed planning and design decisions. Findings will be summarized in a report with recommendations, helping to protect public health and the environment as the project advances.
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