Transit Optimization Study

Overview

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is developing recommendations to address chokepoints along OC Bus Service routes. A transit chokepoint is typically an intersection or route segment where congestion, delays, or operational issues significantly affect the flow of buses. The Transit Optimization Study is an 18-month study that aims to identify a list of priority transit chokepoints in Orange County and propose cost-effective strategies to mitigate their impact.

Background

The OC Transit Vision Master Plan (2018) and the Making Better Connections Study (2022) have supported a program of transit improvements led by the OCTA. The OC Transit Vision identified high-capacity transit corridors and other service improvements that led to the implementation of limited-stop service along Beach Boulevard and Main Street. The Making Better Connections Study analyzed the OC Bus network to determine route realignments, schedule changes, and operational efficiencies. The Making Better Connections Study Implementation Plan is being rolled out through 2025 to improve service in productive areas and streamline service in less-productive areas. Although these improvements are right-sizing the system to more efficiently serve Orange County residents, there are still “chokepoint” locations where OC Bus service is impacted by factors such as traffic congestion, roadway configuration, and other constraints. These chokepoints are generally at busy intersections and/or congested route segments.

The Transit Optimization Study will identify cost-effective operational or capital improvement strategies that can be implemented within available public rights-of-way with an implementation plan that identifies short, medium, and long-term projects.