Who is OCTA?
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is the County’s primary transportation agency. OCTA’s responsibilities extend to all forms of transportation, including bus and paratransit service, Metrolink commuter rail service, the 91 Express Lanes, freeway, street and road improvement projects, motorist services, regulating taxi operations, and administering Measure M. OCTA is governed by an 11-member board of directors consisting of four county supervisors, six city council representatives and a selected member of the public.
Why a Study?
The South Orange County MIS is an effort by OCTA to examine the transportation needs of southern Orange County. It is part of OCTA’s strategic effort to keep Orange County moving over the next 25 years and beyond.
What is a Major Investment Study (MIS)?
A Major Investment Study is a required step in the development of major transportation projects. The MIS identifies all reasonable alternative strategies for addressing mobility problems. The strategic alternatives are then studied further to understand their costs, benefits and potential impacts. This conceptual planning process will last 18 months.
.jpg "Process Chart")
Click to enlarge
What is the goal of the MIS?
The goal of the MIS is to provide a long-range, balance transportation strategy called a Locally Preferred Strategy (LPS) that includes multiple transportation options. The solution will be based on technical input, public commentary and public participation.
What is a Locally Preferred Strategy (LPS)?
A LPS is an alternative recommended by the study team and presented to the OCTA Board of Directors for consideration to be moved forward. If approved by the Board, the LPS will be looked at more closely in the next step, which is the environmental review process. This is not necessarily the strategy that will be implemented; it is simply a strategy that seems feasible enough to be considered further.
What are the next steps after the MIS?
The figure below illustrates the steps that need to take place before construction can begin. There are many steps that need to be taken between the MIS and actual construction. The MIS is the first step in a process that can take many years to become a reality. After the MIS is completed, an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is initiated to evaluate the social, environmental and economic impacts associated with proposed improvements. After the EIS is completed and the design is finalized, construction can begin after funding sources have been identified.
How can I actively participate in the Study?
Visit this website for updates on the study, take part in our online survey, or provides us with your comments through the Contact Us page.
We will also provide opportunities for you to attend community meetings throughout the process. These meetings will allow you to gather information about the study, ask questions, and provide feedback. If you would like to be updated via mailings or email, please visit the Contact Us page or call our toll-free hotline at 888-MIS-4-SOC (888-647-4762). You can also learn about upcoming meetings by visiting the Meetings page.