OCTA receives $357M for rail, hwy projects

SANTA ANA, Calif. The commission allocated the money as a result of state bond sales last month. The projects are part of the voter-approved Proposition 1B and Proposition 116 bond programs.

/*OCTA*/ Chairman Jerry Amante said, "We have been working hard to deliver these transportation improvements and we are looking forward to seeing the shovels hit the ground... This funding is great news for the residents of Orange County and it will be a tremendous shot in the arm for a number of vital projects."

The OCTA projects which received funding include:

• $59.6 million and $63.8 million for two lane addition projects on the Orange Freeway (SR-57)
• $186.4 million for the San Diego Freeway (I-405) San Gabriel River Freeway (I-605) portion of the West County Connectors projects
• $11.5 million for the Metrolink Service Expansion Projects and grade crossing enhancements
• $ 8.25 million for Tustin Metrolink station parking structure
• $15.4 million for Fullerton Metrolink station parking structure
• $12.3 million for Metrolink fiber optics in Orange County
• $200,000 for the city of Brea Imperial Highway Smart Street

Construction of these projects has been on hold pending the funding from the state. The commission's action will mean an infusion of millions of dollars into the local economy and creation of jobs.