Measure M Ends with Projects Delivered

The Orange County Transportation Authority concludes the Measure M program next week, which during the past two decades has paved the way for more than $4 billion in transportation improvements.

Collection of the half-cent sales tax officially stops March 31, ending a program approved by voters 1990.

Laguna Niguel was awarded $14 million in Measure M competitive grants and $12 million in street maintenance grants. 

“Measure M projects have transformed the way in which our residents and visitors travel throughout this county,” said OCTA Chairwoman Patricia Bates, also the 5th District supervisor.

Measure M projects have been split into three general categories, with 43 percent funding freeway projects, 32 percent funding streets and roads projects, and 25 percent funding transit improvements:

• $1.75 billion to upgrade to every Orange County freeway
• $1.3 billion for city street and road projects
• $1 billion for Metrolink service and senior and disabled bus fare stabilization

  Measure M has:

• Added 192 freeway lane miles
• Improved 170 intersection and 38 freeway interchanges
• Provided $600 million to local agencies for improvements
• Allowed Metrolink service to be implemented in Orange County

The voters of Orange County voted to renew Measure M in 2006. On April 1, the first half-cent of what is estimated to be $15 billion over the next 30 years will be collected for Measure M2.