$11M Federal grant will be used to enhance O.C. streets

ORANGE – The Orange County Transportation Authority earlier this month awarded nearly $11 million in federal funds for paving and upkeep of streets across Orange County, helping maintain the county’s high-quality pavement conditions for the safety of drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

The funds totaling $10.9 million, from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), are intended to offset revenue losses during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“These funds will help continue Orange County’s commitment for high-quality pavement conditions that make it possible for our residents, workers, and visitors to travel safely and efficiently,” said OCTA Chairman Andrew Do, also the Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

The funds will be distributed to Orange County cities and the county using a formula based on population, with each receiving a minimum of $200,000. Anaheim, with more than 350,000 residents, is set to receive more than $1 million, while a city such as Villa Park, with fewer than 6,000 residents, still gets $200,000. The population-based formula is consistent with how funds are being distributed statewide through the California Transportation Commission.

Although local cities and the county may have received state and federal stimulus funds for a variety of needs, the use of CRRSAA funds ensures that the money goes directly to transportation needs.

Based on pavement management plan reports submitted by local agencies, there is a backlog in current and projected Orange County pavement needs.

The use of the federal CRRSAA funds will help make up for decreases in transportation funding from both local and state sales tax, which declined during the pandemic and impacted agencies abilities to maintain roadways.

The funds will be used specifically for pavement preservation, preventative maintenance, rehabilitation and reconstruction.

About OCTA: The Orange County Transportation Authority is the county transportation planning commission, responsible for funding and implementing transit and capital projects for a balanced and sustainable transportation system that reflects the diverse travel needs of the county’s 34 cities and 3.2 million residents. With the mission of keeping Orange County moving, this includes freeways and express lanes, bus and rail transit, rideshare, commuter rail, environmental programs and active transportation.