Federal Transit Administration review highlights OCTA’s strong safety, management practices, accountability and responsible stewardship of public transportation funding
ORANGE – The Orange County Transportation Authority has earned exceptional results in a comprehensive federal review of its transit programs and operations, with the Federal Transit Administration finding no deficiencies in any of the areas examined.
The results of the FTA’s 2026 Triennial Review, presented to the Board this week, represent a significant achievement for OCTA and reflect the agency’s commitment to strong financial oversight, effective management and delivering safe, reliable transportation services to Orange County residents.
The review, which every transit agency undergoes if they receive federal funding, evaluates how transit agencies manage federal funding and comply with requirements governing their operations. OCTA received no deficiencies across the review, which examined up to 21 areas of federal compliance, including safety, maintenance, accessibility, financial management, procurement, and project oversight.
The latest results mark the third consecutive FTA Triennial Review in which OCTA has received no deficiencies, continuing a record of excellence dating back to 2019. The agency also earned reviews with no findings of deficiencies in 2019 and 2023, an achievement that is uncommon among transit agencies nationwide. Approximately four deficiencies are identified per review on average, and fewer than 10% of agencies receive results with no deficiencies, according to FTA statistics.
“These outstanding results demonstrate OCTA’s commitment to safety, accountability and ensuring that public transportation dollars are managed responsibly and effectively,” said OCTA Chair Jamey M. Federico. “Our residents expect us to be good stewards of their investment in transportation, and this independent federal review reinforces the confidence they can have in how OCTA serves Orange County.”
The FTA Triennial Review is a key federal oversight process designed to ensure that transit agencies receiving federal funding follow applicable laws, regulations and grant requirements. The review includes detailed examinations of agency records, policies and procedures, as well as interviews with staff and on-site evaluations.
Among the areas receiving favorable results were OCTA’s transportation safety planning, programs for senior and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The review also demonstrated favorable findings for financial management and capacity, management of projects and transit assets, procurement and vehicle and facility maintenance.
For the public, these findings provide independent confirmation that OCTA is meeting important federal requirements designed to protect taxpayer investments, maintain transportation assets and ensure transit services are managed responsibly and equitably.
“Receiving a federal review with no deficiencies is an accomplishment that reflects the dedication and professionalism of employees throughout OCTA,” said OCTA CEO Darrell E. Johnson. “Our mission is to enhance the quality of life in Orange County by delivering innovative and sustainable transportation solutions. These results show that we are maintaining the strong foundation of safety, accountability and responsible management necessary to fulfill that mission every day.”
The positive federal review comes as OCTA continues investing in major transportation improvements, modernizing its bus fleet, advancing zero-emission technologies and preparing to launch the OC Streetcar, while maintaining a focus on safety, financial responsibility and reliable service.
OCTA will continue working to maintain high standards of accountability and transparency as it fulfills its mission to provide transportation solutions that connect communities, support economic opportunity and improve quality of life throughout Orange County.
