Every trip on the ten-mile express lanes between Orange and Riverside counties gave drivers what they value most: an opportunity to live life on time and spend more moments with their loved ones, pursue their passions, and contribute to their communities.

That all-time-high trip count reaffirms that the OCTA made a wise investment when it bought the express lanes in 2003. The purchase eliminated a non- compete clause and opened the door to regional transportation improvements, including the recently launched 91 Improvement Project.

In March, OCTA kicked off the three-stage project between State Route 57 and State Route 55 to reduce congestion, improve travel times, and provide safer conditions for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians along State Route 91 (SR-91).

Led by OCTA in partnership with Caltrans, the 91 Improvement Project is designed to enhance connections between major freeways while modernizing key interchanges to reduce weaving and merging, as well as rebuild major overcrossings to include new safety features, sidewalks, and bike lanes.

Everyone will benefit from these improvements to the regional transportation network, not just those who use the 91 Express Lanes.

Modern digital cameras supported by new wiring and pedestals replaced outdated analog cameras. These improvements provide clearer, more dependable visibility for monitoring traffic conditions.

OCTA also upgraded the Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) and the video wall in the Traffic Operations Center. The operations center is the hub that monitors conditions and coordinates swift responses to keep traffic moving. With these new tools, operators can more quickly identify incidents or hazards and dispatch the proper assistance. The Freeway Service Patrol, Caltrans, and the California Highway Patrol are available to respond to accidents, incidents, disabled vehicles, and road hazards thanks to prompt notification by those in the operations center.

This year, ratings again held firm at exceptional levels: Moody’s Investors Service: Aa3; Fitch Ratings: AA-; and Standard & Poor’s: AA-. These ratings underscore a proven track record of strong operational performance, reliable revenue generation, favorable traffic growth prospects, and a short remaining debt term.

For investors, these consistently high ratings demonstrate the 91 Express Lanes’ status as a well-managed and stable asset, ensuring long-term value and reliability. For travelers, they reflect the continued strength of a system that delivers a dependable, time-saving alternative between Orange and Riverside counties. By reducing congestion, improving travel predictability, and supporting regional mobility, the 91 Express Lanes has proven to be a smart investment and travel alternative.

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