OCTA’s Youth Ride Free program gives youth ages 6 to 18 the freedom to ride OC Bus for free, connecting them to school, activities, jobs and other opportunities throughout Orange County while helping families save on transportation costs.
In response to community feedback, OCTA has modified the application process. Students can apply independently with parental consent and use student IDs to verify eligibility. In addition, students can choose between a physical Wave card or a virtual card on their phone, once approved. Families have until Dec. 31, 2026, to register Wave cards and maintain the Youth Ride Free benefit. A Wave account and approved application are required to continue riding for free. Without approval, regular fares may apply.
With free rides and flexible registration options, Youth Ride Free helps make public transportation more accessible and affordable for Orange County families.
San Clemente Beach Trail Reopens, Rail Line Gets Added Protection
A popular stretch of the San Clemente Beach Trail reopened Oct. 9 following completion of a major OCTA project that helps protect the rail line.
The project includes a protective wall designed to prevent falling rocks and debris from reaching the tracks, helping reduce the risk of disruptions along this scenic stretch of coastline.
The project also restored a popular walking and biking trail, reconnecting an important coastal recreational route for residents and visitors. Crews constructed a new pedestrian bridge at Mariposa Channel and rebuilt the trail, including new handrail fencing, landscaping and other improvements.
Completed in partnership with the City of San Clemente, Metrolink and state and federal agencies, the project reflects a shared commitment to protecting this vital rail connection while preserving public access to Orange County’s beautiful coastline.
Help Shape the Future of OC Bus for a Chance to Win $50
We’re developing a plan to transition our bus fleet to 100% zero-emission vehicles by 2040 while continuing to provide safe, reliable service. As part of this effort, we’re continuing to test battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses to determine which technology best meets your needs.
Please take a short community survey by Nov. 8 to share your thoughts and priorities for the future of OC Bus. All respondents will be entered for a chance to win one of four $50 gift cards. No purchase or payment is necessary.
Metrolink riders have updates to know about, including changes to ticket prices, a new app that makes it easier to report safety concerns, and a public hearing that will include proposed service reductions.
Fare Update: Metrolink has updated select fares for the first time in 13 years. One-Way Tickets and SoCal Day Passes now cost more, while prices for 5-Day Flex Passes and Monthly Passes may increase, decrease or stay the same depending on travel distance. All Metrolink Everyday Discount programs continue to be available.
New Safety App:Metrolink's new Safe Ride app gives riders a quick, discreet way to report non-emergency safety and security concerns at stations or on board trains. Riders can send information directly to Metrolink's Security Operations Center and choose to remain anonymous.
Public Hearing: On October 23, 2026, the Metrolink Board of Directors will hold a public hearing concerning adoption of the proposed annual budget. As part of the discussion, service reductions are being proposed that could be implemented as early as mid-November. Learn more.
Walking to Your Next Stop? Stay Safe Along the Way
October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, a reminder for everyone to stay alert and look out for one another on Orange County roads. Whether you're walking to a bus stop, crossing the street or out for a walk, a few simple precautions can help keep you safe.
When walking:
Use marked crosswalks whenever possible and look both ways before crossing.
Stay alert and avoid distractions, such as looking at your phone.
Make sure drivers see you before stepping into the street.
Wear bright or reflective clothing at night to help increase visibility.
When driving:
Slow down, especially near schools, neighborhoods and bus stops.
Yield to people crossing at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
Avoid distractions and use extra caution at night or in poor weather.
Whether you're behind the wheel or on foot, staying alert and following traffic rules helps make every trip safer.
Get into the Halloween spirit with festive events and activities conveniently accessible by OC Bus.
Knotts Scary Farm Open through October 31 Times vary with events Admission: $75 Knotts Berry Farm Buena Park OC Bus Route 29 Pumpkin City Open through October 31 M-Th: 12:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Fri, Sat, Sun: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Admission: $8 - $14; check for free times Laguna Hills OC Bus Routes 83, 87, 89, 91, 177 Pumpkin Factory at MainPlace Mall Open through October 31 Weds-Thurs: 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday: 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday: Noon – 10 p.m. Sunday: Noon - 9 p.m. Free admission Wed-Thurs; Fri-Sun $5 admission Santa Ana OC Bus Routes53, 83, 553
