Orange County is dealing with falling transit use, and its transit authority is looking for ways to stay afloat.
Like many transit services around the United States, the Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA) is dealing with declining ridership. Its approach to the problem could result in reduced service. "The cuts would come from removing bus trips from 12 routes and eliminating three bus routes to train stations, including bus service to ARTIC, Anaheim’s new transit hub which officials say will improve productivity by trimming resources from routes with fewer riders and eliminating five buses from the agency’s fleet," Thy Vo reports for Voice of the OC.
These cuts would be part of a plan to focus service on the most heavily used routes. "…cuts also reflect the Transportation Authority’s ongoing struggle to cope with falling bus ridership and productivity, which has declined by 19 percent since 2013 despite the fact that the total number of service hours has remained constant," Vo writes.
An article from February 2016 reveals that OCTA has already provoked public outcry by proposing to cut routes.
FULL STORY: As Bus Ridership Keeps Falling, OC Transit Officials Shift Strategies
Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion
The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.
Free Student Transit Now Permanent in Orange County
After a successful pilot program, the OCTA will permanently offer free bus rides to youth ages 6 to 18.
Amtrak in Dire Financial Straits, Seeking More Federal Relief Funding
Amtrak officials say they need $4.9 billion in funding to prevent service and job losses.
How Smaller Supermarkets Could Transform American Communities
Bigger is not always better.
Research Links Urban Design and Human Happiness
An emerging field of ‘neuroarchitectural’ research is revealing how building facades and urban design impact the human brain and body.
Save Lives on Our Roads Using the Safe System Approach
Prioritizing safety and committing to the SSA framework can make a big impact in the effort to reduce traffic fatalities.
Key Climate and Health Issues to Watch in 2025
The escalating health impacts of climate change, from extreme heat to sea level rise, highlight the urgent need for integrated medical education, proactive communication, and sustainable policy solutions to protect public health.
Rising Temperatures and the Escalating Wildfire Crisis
Rising global temperatures driven by climate change are intensifying and prolonging wildfire seasons worldwide, necessitating improved forest management, public awareness, and urgent action to reduce fossil fuel emissions.
Looking Back on 60 Years of Land Development in the Twin Cities
In 1960, about 12 percent of the Twin Cities metro's land was already developed. By 2020, about 34 percent had been developed. Many factors influenced how the region has changed since 1960.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Oxford
Caltrans - District 7
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport