ARTIC transportation hub in Anaheim sees ribbon cutting

ANAHEIM, Calif. (KABC) -- Monday marked a big day for commuters in Orange County with the ribbon cutting on a new giant transportation hub.

City officials say the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center, or ARTIC, is the future of mass transportation in Orange County.

"It provides 10 transportation services so you can connect here through vehicles, through taxis, a number of bus opportunities and shuttles, we've got a regional bike trail right next door," said Natalie Meeks, director of the city of Anaheim Public Works.

Construction started more than two years ago. ARTIC sits near the Honda Center and Angel Stadium, right next to the 57 Freeway. It not only provides public transport to local attractions, but also longer trips from Tijuana to San Francisco.

The project cost more than $180 million, and it's considered state-of-the-art.

"It's got ventilation systems that open and close automatically as the day warms," said Meeks.

The structure, shaped like a dome, is covered with air-inflated pillows.

"It keeps a lot of the warmth out of the building. It's got reflective dots that reflect the radiant heat but lets in the sunshine," said Meeks.

So far only a convenience market is open inside, but several restaurants are expected to debut in the spring.